Melbourne Reviews

With the appetite of audiences at a constant high for the jukebox bio musical, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical shimmies its way seamlessly into the genre. The dynamic performer with powerhouse vocals has a fascinating history. Rising from her smalltown roots to become one of the biggest stars in the world Tina Turner’s epic catalogue of songs soundtracks her life in one of the more cohesive narratives in musical theatre.

Ruva Ngwenya is dynamite as Tina, with barely a moment off stage, Ngwenya has an incredible stage presence, bringing the audience on board from the beginning. The power of her vocals in tandem with the rapid choreography is almost otherworldly, her stamina and control not only keeps up with the pace but sets it.

Joined by Jayme-Lee Hanekom as Alline Bullock, Tina’s adoring sister, what’s wonderful to see is Hanekom be let off the leash during some of the wilder dance numbers as an Ike-ette. Speaking of Ike … as a character we love to hate, Giovanni Adams leans into the worst of the abusive, drug taking, adulterating behaviour, and his best moments come later in act two as he pathetically attempts to redeem himself.

Overall, it runs a little long and there are some moments that drag, in particular some of the scenes with Tina’s mother, Zelma (played by Ibinabo Jack). I wonder if this is a structural choice to give the leading lady, quite literally a moment to breathe. Additionally, there are some other awkward scenes where the fight choreography didn’t quite land and pantomime acting throughout.

After overcoming a traumatic childhood, abusive relationship, financial and professional ruin, Tina Turner claws her way back to the top thanks to a little Aussie influence from Roger Davis, played by Mat Verevis with joyful exuberance.

Fortunately, Tina Turner’s life had a happy ending, the kind of wholesome second act not often seen in rock and roll history. The positivity of the narrative, and overall warmth of the cast is truly heart-warming. As it all leads up to Tina’s concert in Brazil, the audience is already gearing up to get on their feet. Stellar performances by the entire cast and final reveal of the band for “Simply the Best” is the payoff we have been waiting for, and it slaps.

Tina is not the kind of show you can sit down for, especially with the repertoire of bangers on hand. The show has a wide appeal and it’s evident why it has been so successful. Ruva Ngwenya as the leading lady pays fitting tribute to the true icon that continues to inspire and delight with her story, and, with her music.