Aisha Jawando to take over role of Tina Turner in West End musical
Aisha Jawando will take over the lead role in Tina - The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre later this year.
Jawando, who is the current alternate Tina Turner playing the role on Monday evenings and Thursday matinees, will take over from Nkeki Obi-Melekwe, who is leaving the production to join the cast of the Broadway transfer which opens later this year.
The musical premiered in the West End in 2018 starring Adrienne Warren in the titular role. Warren, will star in the Broadway premiere at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, and Obi-Melekwe will join the company in New York to play Tina at certain performances.
Jawando, who originally played Tina's sister Alline Bullock in the production, said: "I have loved being part of this show from the very beginning, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to play this exceptional role.
"Tina Turner is such an inspirational woman and I hope that I continue to make her proud."
Turner herself commented on Jawando's casting, saying: "I first met Aisha during early rehearsals for our show. She was in our original West End Company playing my sister Alline and I loved her performance.
"It has been special to watch her journey with us and see the development of her extraordinary talent. I am so pleased that Aisha will now lead our company through its next chapter here in London."
Jawando's previous West End credits include Motown at the Shaftesbury Theatre, Beautiful - The Carole King Musical at the Aldwych and The Book of Mormon at the Prince of Wales Theatre.
Casting for the West End production also includes Ashley Zhangazha (Ike Turner), Madeline Appiah (Zelma), Tsemaye Bob-Egbe (Tina at some performances), Irene-Myrtle Forrester (Grandmother GG), Howard Gossington (Phil Spector/Terry Britten), Francesca Jackson (Rhonda Graam), Ava Brennan (Alline Bullock), Jammy Kasongo (Richard Bullock/Raymond Hill), Edward Bourne (Erwin Bach) and Oscar Batterham (Roger Davies).
The musical is based on Turner's life, and chronicles her rise from humble beginnings in the small town of Nutbush, to becoming a worldwide music icon, and features many of her greatest hits including "Proud Mary", "What's Love Got to do With It?" and "Private Dancer".
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical is booking at the Aldwych Theatre until 11th January 2020.
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical tickets are available now.
Photo credit: Manuel Harlan
Frequently asked questions
What is Tina - The Tina Turner Musical about?
To become a star, it’s about the journey, not the destination. Created with Turner herself, this musical offers an inside look at the life behind the music. Tina Turner’s barrier-smashing, record-breaking life comes to the stage with a score of her greatest hits. Find out more about TINA: The Tina Turner Musical tickets at the Aldwych Theatre today.
How long is Tina - The Tina Turner Musical?
The running time of Tina - The Tina Turner Musical is 2hr 45min. Incl. 1 interval.
Where is Tina - The Tina Turner Musical playing?
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical is playing at Aldwych Theatre. The theatre is located at 49 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4DF.
What's the age requirement for Tina - The Tina Turner Musical?
The recommended age for Tina - The Tina Turner Musical is Ages 14+. Contains scenes and language, which may be unsuitable for children under 14. Children under 5 are not admitted..
How do you book tickets for Tina - The Tina Turner Musical?
Book tickets for Tina - The Tina Turner Musical on London Theatre.
What are the songs in Tina?
Tina is a jukebox musical that features classic Tina Turner hits, such as “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and “The Best.” Read our complete guide to the songs in Tina.
Who wrote Tina?
The book for Tina was written by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar, and Kees Prins. At the 2020 Tony Awards, they received a nomination for Best Book of a Musical for their work on the production.
Who directed Tina?
Tina was directed by the award-winning Phyllida Lloyd. She is best known for directing Mamma Mia! and The Iron Lady.
Is Tina appropriate for kids?
Tina can be enjoyed by those of all ages. Due to gunshots, loud music, and scenes depicting domestic violence, the show is recommended for those over the age of 14.
Is Tina good?
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical features many hits from the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” and tells the story of her struggles and successes. Read our four-star review of Tina - The Tina Turner Musical.
Who plays Tina Turner in the musical?
Karis Anderson and Elesha Paul Moses currently share the role of Tina Turner.
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