Review: Tina - The Tina Turner Musical

Hey readers!
It's time for my review of Tina - The Tina Turner Musical.
Tina Turner was born Anna Mae Bullock on 26 November 1939 in Nutbush, Tennessee. She obtained Swiss citizenship in 2013 and currently lives in Küsnacht, Switzerland. She shot to fame in the mid-1950s singing with Ike Turner's Kings of Rhythm, originally under the name "Little Ann." She became Tina Turner in 1960 and began the Ike & Tina Turner Revue with hits such as "River Deep – Mountain High", "Proud Mary" and "Nutbush City Limits", selling-out tickets to shows in stadiums and arenas across the world. She has since spoken openly about being a victim of domestic abuse and split from Ike in 1976.

Tina Turner has obviously has a very compelling life-story; she has overcome multiple hardships, and only become stronger because of it. There is no doubt that Tina Turner has led a very eventful and interesting life. Having said that, I did feel the book of 'Tina - The Tina Turner Musical' did not portray this story as well as it could have. Some elements of the story left me a little confused, and I felt that there were some questions that the book did not fully answer. An example of this is the events surrounding Tina's marriage to Ike Turner presented in Act One. It is never truly made clear as to why Tina chose to leave her boyfriend, who came across as kind and charming, for Ike Turner, a man who came across as neither kind or charming. It is clear that this relationship is toxic from the get-go, and yet it remains unclear as to why they are together. I would have liked to have seen this particular storyline explored in a slightly greater depth. Despite this, I definitely feel that Act Two is a lot stronger, with a far superior story. In Act Two, we see Tina overcoming her past and fighting tirelessly to launch a solo career. It was great to see this unfold, and I am delighted that Mrs. Turner was successful in her quest.

Adrienne Warren, in the role of Tina Turner, carries the show from beginning to end. She perfectly embodies the role, and gives a beyond outstanding performance. Warren is a true triple threat; she is a phenomenal actress, an amazing singer and an astonishing dancer. It would be an understatement to call her perfect in this role. Since I viewed Tina, Adrienne Warren has left the production, however she will be reprising her role in the upcoming Broadway transfer this autumn! In regards to the cast, a special mention must also be given to Oscar Batterham, who portrays Roger Davies. Batterham gives a real stand-out performance, and I was left rather impressed by his portrayal.

The costumes, by Mark Thompson, are a highlight of the production. They are excellently designed and suit the time period well. Additionally, Tina's costumes were very true to life and filled with much detail.

Now for my final verdict on Tina - The Tina Turner Musical. I give Tina - The Tina Turner Musical...

Despite certain reservations about Tina's book, there are many redeeming factors. Tina's life-story is mostly very interesting, Adrienne Warren is phenomenal and the costume designs are excellent. 

Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.

Thanks for reading!

-The Reviewer