After all these years, the Tina Turner Musical is nothing short of electrifying, particularly with the recent addition of Fleur East stepping into the iconic role of Tina Turner. After witnessing the show during its remarkable seven-year run at the Aldwych Theatre, this latest incarnation clearly maintains the high standards that have made it one of the West End's most enduring successes.
Fleur East brings her own unique energy to the role while honouring the legendary spirit of Tina Turner. Her vocal prowess is immediately evident from the opening numbers, delivering the powerhouse performances these timeless songs demand. Most impressive is how she balances the vulnerability of Anna Mae Bullock with the fierce determination of the woman who would become the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. Her rendition of "What's Love Got to Do with It" is particularly moving, capturing both the pain and triumph embedded in Turner's journey.
Okezie Morro's portrayal of Ike Turner is equally compelling, managing to convey the complexity of a character who is both charismatic and deeply flawed. The chemistry between East and Morro drives the emotional core of the show, making the more difficult scenes genuinely affecting while never overshadowing the ultimate message of resilience and empowerment.
The production values remain top-notch. The staging cleverly uses the Aldwych Theatre's intimate space to create both grand concert moments and intensely personal scenes. The costume design deserves special mention – from the early humble beginnings to the later glamorous stage outfits, each piece tells its own story and helps chart Tina's transformation (the set and costume designer is Mark Thompson).
What continues to strike audiences about this musical is how it celebrates not just the music, but the woman behind it. The show doesn't shy away from the darker chapters of Turner's life, but it frames them within a broader narrative of strength, determination, and ultimately, liberation. The audience was on their feet multiple times throughout the evening, and the final number had everyone singing along.
It's easy to see why TINA has become such a fixture in the West End. This is crowd-pleasing musical theatre at its finest – emotional, energetic, and utterly entertaining. Whether you're a longtime Tina Turner fan or new to her story, this show delivers an unforgettable evening that will have you humming those legendary songs long after the curtain falls.
A thoroughly enjoyable night out that showcases why this production continues to pack the Aldwych Theatre night after night.
Tina closes in the West End on 13 September 2025. Tickets: here.