TINA – The Tina Turner Musical has arrived at the Wales Millennium Centre, and it is nothing short of extraordinary.
I was invited to watch the show last night, and from the very first moment it was clear this was going to be a powerful, unforgettable evening. What unfolded on stage was one of the most astonishing vocal performances I’ve ever witnessed.
Elle Ma‑Kinga N’zuzi, starring as Tina Turner, was phenomenal. Her voice, her presence, her command of the stage — everything she delivered paid beautiful homage to Tina while still feeling entirely her own. Every song was a showcase of raw power and emotion, and there were moments where the entire audience seemed to collectively hold its breath. It was a performance that didn’t just imitate Tina Turner, but honoured her spirit.
Like many people, I’ve always loved Tina’s music, but I knew very little about her life story. This show doesn’t shy away from the truth of what she endured, and I found myself shocked, moved, and overwhelmed by her strength. Watching her journey unfold — the pain, the resilience, the determination — was genuinely inspiring. You leave the theatre feeling like you can take on anything.
The cast surrounding her were equally exceptional. David King‑Yombo delivered a chilling and commanding performance as Ike Turner, capturing the complexity of the role with intensity and precision. Martin Allanson brought charisma and flair as Phil Spector, while William Beckerleg was warm and grounded as Erwin Bach. Rushand Chambers (Richard), Claude East (Gran Georgeanna), Isaac Elder (Roger), Georgia Gillam (Alline), Letitia Hector (Zelma Bullock), Kyle Richardson (Raymond) and Gemma Sutton (Rhonda Graam) and the rest of the cast all brought incredible energy and depth to their roles.
But a special shoutout has to go to the performance of Chizaram Ochuba-Okafor as Young Anna Mae. For being so young I could not believe the power of her vocals. The whole audience was left in awe (and with goosebumps).
The production itself was exceptional. The set is technically quite minimal, but used so cleverly that it never feels lacking. The lighting design in particular is striking, guiding the emotion of each scene and building to a finale that feels like you’ve stepped straight into a Tina Turner concert. By the end, the atmosphere in the auditorium was electric.
And the audience reaction was unlike anything I’ve seen. The applause was immediate and thunderous, people leaping to their feet the moment the final number began.
This show is an experience in itself. With this being the first time TINA is touring the UK & Ireland, I have no doubt it’s going to be an incredible success. It’s moving, empowering, and packed with unforgettable performances. A truly remarkable night at the theatre.
TINA – The Tina Turner Musical will be at the Wales Millennium Centre until 28th February and tickets are selling out fast, so gets yours now!
You can find out more about the TINA – The Tina Turner Musical UK & Irleand tour on their website, Facebook and Instagram!
And keep a look out for what’s going on in the Wales Millennium Centre on their website, Facebook and Instagram!
