Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – Liverpool Empire

From the opening notes of ‘Simply the Best’ and the curtain rising into the sky, you know you’re in for a rollercoaster of a night. Tina: The Tina Turner Musical delivers a powerful evening of storytelling and soul, bringing the extraordinary yet deeply intense life of Tina Turner to life. This heart-wrenching yet highly energetic performance had audiences cheering Tina on her journey from the very start.

Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi sensationally portrays the role of Tina, embodying her every move and likeness to a tea. Her vocal prowess is something to be rivalled; she really brought Tina’s vulnerability and powerful nature to the audience. Her ability to maintain vocal composure whilst depicting the raw and emotional scenes of the domestic violence Tina went through really allows for audiences to see the true talent that N’zuzi has. She was flawless and really engaged the audience just like Tina did. By the time the show got to the bows she had won everyone’s hearts and has us all on our feet dancing and singing along to an array of Tina hits. Tina may be the Queen of Rock and Role, but Elle Ma-King N’Zuzi was the Queen of this show.

A special shoutout must got to the two young ladies in the cast, Sophia St Louis and Shaniyah Abrahams. St Louis’ portrayal of young Anna-Mae brought purity and innocence to the character, and despite some darker scenes, her ability to showcase the life of Anna-Mae growing up was beautiful. St Louis beautifully captured the determination and spark that young girl form Nutbush, Tennessee, who grew to sell out stadiums, had. Her voice throughout the show, from the earlier gospel music to ‘Rolling’ was stunning to listen to, bright yet still powerful.  Not forgetting Abrahams who took on the role of Young Alline and Craig; this young lady captured the protectiveness of Alline and the heartbreak of leaving her sister behind, in an effortless way, making the sibling chemistry feel so natural. It really drew you in to the story. Then later, Abrahams’ portrayal of Craig gave the audience some moments of tenderness and connection between Tina and her son, really showing the protectiveness Tina had in trying to keep her son away from the violence of Ike. Both actors were brilliant throughout their times on stage and really helped tell the story. These two ladies will be huge stars in the future.

David King-Yombo was incredible as Ike Turner. His unsettling yet charming performance lit up the stage. King-Yombo brought the swagger and cruelty that only Ike Turner could have. He captured the character perfectly with his smooth vocals and talented guitar work, you almost felt on edge when he performed, waiting for the switch in personality. His ability to portray such a villain is truly astounding but respectful to the story.

The deep scenes with explosive outbursts really showed off King-Yombo’s and N’Zuzi’s acting abilities and trusted on-stage partnership. The fight scenes were well rehearsed, and the vulnerability of the characters, particularly Tina, really shone through. The two depicted the heartbreaking storyline brilliantly.

Visually, the set and the costumes were incredible, they really captured the times well. From the cotton fields to the recording studios, to the final staged concert, the staging, props and outfits really brought through the changes in both the years and in Tina’s own personality. Add in lots of show-stopping choreography, it truly was a visual masterpiece. Let’s not forget the talents of the orchestra who, directed by Sarah Burrell, really brought the show to life through the dramatic, dark, behind-the-scenes moments, to the highs of Tina concerts. The music was the heartbeat of the show, staying true to the signature style of Tina Turner, with an added flare for the theatre production. It was phenomenal.

Tina- The Tina Turna Musical is a triumph and an inspiring tribute to a legendary Queen of Rock and Roll. Through its portrayal of real resilience, and the breathtaking performances we get to witness, this show is not to be missed. It will leave you wanting more and will stay with you long after the curtains have closed.

Reviewer: Abigail Pendlebury

Reviewed: 13th August 2025

North West End UK Rating: