REVIEW - TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL UK TOUR | LIVERPOOL EMPIRE | 21/08/2025

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – UK Tour Shines Bright at Liverpool Empire

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical first made waves in London’s West End and on Broadway eight years ago, quickly earning acclaim for its bold storytelling and unforgettable music. Now, on its first UK tour, the production brings Tina Turner’s incredible life story to audiences across the country. This isn’t just a jukebox musical; it’s a compelling portrait of a survivor, a powerhouse performer, and a woman who overcame unimaginable odds to become the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Directed by Phyllida Lloyd and brought to life with Anthony Van Laast’s electrifying choreography and Mark Thompson’s period-perfect sets and costumes, the show is as cinematic as it is thrilling.

The musical takes us on a sweeping journey through Tina Turner’s extraordinary life. We begin in Nutbush, Tennessee, where young Anna Mae Bullock discovers her voice in church, before being thrust into a childhood shaped by neglect and domestic abuse. As she grows older, Anna Mae moves to St Louis, where nights spent in smoky clubs with her sister Alline lead to a fateful meeting with musician Ike Turner.

What follows is a complex and often harrowing depiction of their relationship. On stage, we see the highs of fame and the thrill of performing as “Ike and Tina Turner,” but also the devastating lows of coercive control, domestic violence, and manipulation. These scenes are difficult to watch, but they are staged with honesty and respect, shedding light on the resilience it took for Tina to survive.

The second act shifts tone as Tina finds the strength to leave Ike and reinvent herself, not only as a solo artist but as a global superstar. We watch her rebuild from scratch, battling prejudice, ageism, and doubt, before reclaiming her throne as one of music’s most iconic performers. From River Deep – Mountain High to Proud Mary and finally to the euphoric finale of Simply the Best, the story is as much about survival and reinvention as it is about music. By the time the curtain falls, audiences have lived through Tina’s pain, celebrated her victories, and cheered her triumphant comeback.

Visually, the show is a feast for the eyes. From the dusty cotton fields of Tennessee to the glittering lights of 1980s stadiums, the set changes fluidly, aided by clever projections and striking lighting design. Costumes reflect each era with authenticity, capturing Tina’s transformation from young Anna Mae to rock icon. The music is the heartbeat of the production, featuring 23 electrifying numbers, including Proud Mary, Simply the Best, We Don’t Need Another Hero, and Private Dancer. Choreography is relentless, matching Tina’s own energy and leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.

At the Liverpool Empire, the role of Tina Turner was brought to life by Bree Smith, and her performance was nothing short of phenomenal. From the tender vulnerability of Tina’s early years to the commanding, fiery energy of her solo career, Bree captured every nuance of this extraordinary woman. Her powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence, and emotional depth had the audience cheering, clapping, and finally leaping to their feet for a well-deserved standing ovation.

Opposite her, David King-Yombo delivered a chilling and layered portrayal of Ike Turner. He exuded charm in the early scenes but revealed a darker volatility that made their relationship both compelling and heartbreaking to watch.

Sedona Sky brought warmth, loyalty, and humour to the role of Alline Bullock, Tina’s devoted sister, while Letitia Hector added gravitas as Zelma, Tina’s complicated mother. Isaac Elder stood out as Roger Davies, Tina’s manager, bringing wit and a steadying presence to Tina’s journey of reinvention.

The younger performers also shone brightly. Chloe Angiama captured the innocence and spark of young Anna Mae Bullock, while Mariah Martinez brought sensitivity and warmth to her dual roles as young Alline and Craig.

Adding moments of eccentricity and levity, Martin Allanson made an impression as the flamboyant Phil Spector, and the ensemble delivered thrilling vocals and razor-sharp choreography that gave the show its unstoppable energy.

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical UK Tour is a triumph—a celebration of resilience, strength, and the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll. From heart-wrenching lows to rousing highs, this production delivers an unforgettable theatre experience. By the time the curtain falls, you’ll be on your feet, singing, dancing, and cheering for a woman who truly was simply the best. This is more than a musical; it’s an electrifying, inspiring journey through the life of a legend, and a show that will linger in your heart long after the final bow.

✨ A night that proves why Tina will always be… simply the best. ✨

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical is at Liverpool Empire until Saturday 23rd August 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - Johan Persson