Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, UK Tour Review (2025)
Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy. Photo by Johan Persson (1) (1)
Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Includes scenes depicting domestic violence, racist language, strong language, loud music, strobe lighting, haze, and gunshots.
Heading towards its seventh year (and the longest-running show) at the West End’s Aldwych Theatre, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is now embarking on its first UK and Ireland tour in 2025. Expect electrifying performances, powerhouse vocals, and a story as inspiring as the legend herself.
While often labelled a ‘jukebox’ musical, Katori Hall’s masterful storytelling ensures that this is far more than just a greatest hits showcase or a ‘tribute’. This is a raw, emotional, and gripping bio-musical, using Tina’s music not just for the spectacle, but to drive the heart and impact of her story. And what a story it is.
From the very first note, the energy in the theatre is electric and it sustains that right until the final note. The production doesn’t shy away from the struggles Tina faced, tackling the highs and lows of her journey with unflinching honesty. The hard-hitting portrayal of the turbulent and abusive relationship between Ike and Tina leaves audiences shocked but with the stories of male violence against women becoming more common in the public eye, it serves as a powerful and necessary reminder of the resilience it takes to break free. But it’s not just the narrative that captivates audiences and makes TINA- The Tina Turner Musical such a belter of a show, the performances are nothing short of phenomenal.
Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy leads our performance as Tina and she’s a force of nature. She’s nothing short of remarkable as she channels Tina’s signature rasp, her fiery spirit and her unmatched stage presence whilst also managing to sustain a totally unique presentation of her in comparison to one other I’ve seen before. Her connection with David King-Yombo is some powerful stuff. King-Yombo has the job of navigating what is quite a complex character in Ike Turner and he does it in incredible style.
Directed by Phyllida Lloyd, the production is bolstered by several standout performances that add the emotional depth needed to bring Tina’s story to life. Chizaram Ochuba-Okafor shines as Young Tina, offering a heartfelt glimpse into her early years, while Alline Bullock, as Tina’s sister, delivers a strong supporting presence. Rushand Chambers and Letitia Hector, who portray Tina’s parents, bring an incredible intensity to the family dynamic, enriching the narrative with layers of complexity and emotion.
The quality of the touring production is undeniably West End-worthy, ensuring that even those who have seen it before won’t be disappointed by what’s brought to the stage. Mark Thompson’s set, Bruno Poet’s lighting, and Jeff Sugg’s projection design work in perfect harmony, creating a visually striking and immersive experience that enhances the emotional and musical impact of the show.
TINA - The Tina Turner Musical concludes with a showstopping finale that will leave you buzzing long after the curtain calls. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or you are discovering more about Tina for the first time, this musical is a must-see for many reasons. It’s a true celebration of resilience, talent and the unstoppable power of Tina Turner but also a powerhouse production from an entire collective of performers and creatives.
On a UK & Ireland tour until 4 April 2026
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
