New West End cast for Tina – The Tina Turner Musical announced
A new cast of the West End production of Tina - The Tina Turner Musical has been announced as the musical looks to enter its second year in London, and prepares to transfer to Broadway.
Adrienne Warren, who originated the titular role in the jukebox musical, will leave the production in April to lead the Broadway transfer which opens in the autumn.
From 15th April, the role of Tina will be played by Nkeki Obi-Melekwe, while Ashley Zhangazha will take over from Kobna Holdbrook-Smith as Ike Turner.
Obi-Melekwe will make her West End debut in the show. Her previous theatre credits include the off-Broadway production of Alice By Heart, and she has appeared in the television shows Smilf and Bull.
On the casting, Tina Turner said Obi-Melekwe's 'raw talent is clearly extraordinary and her determination is second to none', while director Phyllida Lloyd added, 'This role must be one of the most demanding in world theatre and requires a human being of exceptional gifts and massive inner strength: Nkeki has both.'
Zhangazha was last seen on stage in Manchester in Death of a Salesman at the Royal Exchange. In London, he has previously appeared in the West End productions of Henry V and Fences, the National Theatre productions of Pericles and Danton's Death, and Terror at Lyric Hammersmith.
Further new casting includes Irene-Myrtle Forrester as Tina's Grandmother GG, Howard Gossington will as producer Phil Spector and lyricist Terry Britten, Jammy Kasongo will play Tina's father Richard and Tina's first love Raymond, Edward Bourne will take over as record company marketing manager Erwin Bach, and Oscar Batterham will play Tina's manager Roger Davies. Aisha Jawando will play Tina at some performances each week.
The new cast will play its first performance on 19th March with the exception of Obi-Melekwe and Zhangazha, who join on 15th April.
Francesca Jackson will continue to play Ike and Tina's manager Rhonda Graam, and Maria Omakinwa will join the cast to play Tina's mother Zelma until 22nd June, when Madeline Appiah will take over.
The ensemble includes Daniella Bowen, Chloe Chambers, Joelle Dyson, Sia Kiwa, Lejaun Sheppard, Kibong Tanji, Cameron Bernard Jones who also plays Tina's son Craig and Ashlee Irish who plays Tina's son Ronnie and Joseph Richardson, and swings Gavin Alex, Derek Aidoo, Joshua Da Costa, Amandla Elynah, Hannah Jay-Allan, Angela Marie Hurst, Leisha Mollyneaux and Samuel J. Weir.
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical is booking at the Aldwych Theatre until 21st December.
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical tickets are on sale now.
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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