Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – Aldwych Theatre, London

Director: Phyllida Lloyd

Just off the Strand, there’s a new “Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll” taking to the stage. Fleur East has taken on the role of Tina Turner in The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre and, alternating with Karis Anderson, will see the show – which has been running for seven years – through to its conclusion in September this year.

East, celebrated for her chart-topping hit Sax and memorable run on The X Factor, has fantastic stage presence as she belts out Tina’s signature anthems. From the relentless drive of Proud Mary to the emotional depth of What’s Love Got To Do With It, her renditions feel authentic and faithful to the originals while adding a spark of her own.

Under the direction of Phyllida Lloyd, Tina chronicles the singer’s journey from her humble beginnings and complicated family life in Nutbush, Tennessee, through her turbulent partnership with Ike Turner, to her triumphant solo career. The musical combines her extensive back catalogue with exuberant outfits (plenty of sequins, leather and denim), an iconic wig, dynamic choreography and a compelling storyline to evoke the grit, glamour and perseverance that define Turner’s legacy.

Taking on a character as iconic as Tina is not for the faint-hearted, and East commits wholeheartedly to the challenge. She brings confidence, strong vocals and moments of raw vulnerability that recall Tina’s own transformation on stage, and the audience reaction on the night is exactly what you would expect from such a performance.

It’s an entertaining show, but doesn’t shy away from the challenges Turner experienced growing up poor and Black in a world that wasn’t ready for her — and that ought to be commended. It’s not your average jukebox musical: it’s a fitting tribute to the life and music of a cultural pioneer.

Ultimately, with its uplifting message of resilience, empowerment and irrepressible soul, Tina remains one of the West End’s most popular nights out.

The Tina Turner Musical is running at the Aldwych Theatre, London, until mid-September, after which it will close following a seven-year run that makes it one of only 10 West End shows to surpass 3,000 performances.

The show runs until 13 September 2025