The musical that you need to add to your list is here and that’s Tina Turner. I missed it when it came to Philadelphia due to being sick. However less than 30 minutes away from Philadelphia at The Playhouse in Delaware this weekend you can catch the story of perseverance and strength.
Know before you go see Tina Turner
Arrive in plenty of time. If your show is after 6 there is plenty of free street parking. Pack a little patience or I highly suggest that you come at least an hour or so earlier. There are plenty of spots to eat near the venue and there is a food court on the side of the venue too. The show is about 3 hours total with a 15 minute intermission. Expect amazing singing from the entire cast.
If you’re late they will seat you when they can. It’s a little tighter space inside but nothing that anyone can’t handle. There’s also a bar with snacks available for purchase. I would highly suggest not taking anyone under the age of 16 even with the suggest age of 14 and up.
Haven’t you heard the story before?
This isn’t the television version that featured Angela Bassett. There are parts that are mentioned because regardless who is covering the life of Tina Turner but this depiction concentrates on her after story from Ike as well as the relationship or lack there of with her mother. Both of these focuses allow you to see Tina completely different. For instance this helped me to realize the challenges that she went through to continue and gain her story. The television version sped it up and makes it look easier.
A few Breakout Stars for me in Tina Turner
Taylor Brice who plays a young Tina did it for me. Her fist notes really stood out to me and she is a powerhouse in the making. I know it made nothing but sense to find a little girl who could sing but it’s also her stage presence. Look out for her because her talent can’t be denied. Also Maurice Alpharicio as Raymond Earl King. He plays Tina’s love interest before Ike. Please understand he has a musical number that made the hair on my neck stand up.
Elaina Walton as Zelma Bullock
You will love to hair her. She is unfortunately like many girls, Tina’s first bully. If you ever had an issue or have gone no contact with a family member, Zelma would be the poster girl for it. From birth she was disconnected from Tina. The hate spews over from the first scene. I’m not surprised that Tina ran from the lack of love from her mom to Ike. Many people would blame the dad but I blame the mom. The toxicity that she was to Tina and herself was on full display.
Elaina definitely brought a sense of flare to the role. I appreciated how she went in on it. In any other depiction of Tina Turner was the sentiment that she was just strict. Zelma was more than strict she was indeed a menace and gives realism to not everyone who has kids is a mother. Elaina deserves her flowers to be able to get into character to portray such a complex character.
Tina Turner the Icon
Strength, honor, and courage are a few words to describe Tina Turner. However seeing that she too went through people pleasing phase kept her in the grasp of Ike. Making promises to him over herself is what led her to Ike. Getting away from him was deeper than that run to the hotel. Her freedom path took her down roads she hadn’t even imagined. Crazy to me how much Ike tried to keep his foot on her neck.
This show is mesmerizing. The way in which all of the actors and actresses work on one another’s energy is seen. The show albeit 3 hours is definitely worth it. Of course get ready to belt out the tunes we all love. Jayna Elise is a musical talent I haven’t seen before. Yes she can sing all of the songs that we love with flare. What other untrained ears may not be able to hear is she has her own musical tone that she switches in and out of throughout the night.
Unfortunately Tina Turner is playing at the Playhouse this weekend only. Get your tickets now. Thank you to the staff of Tina Turner Musical, the Playhouse, and Bryan Buttler Media Productions for having me.
