You can catch the five-star hit at Leeds Grand Theatre
Megan Shaw Senior Lifestyle Reporter
10:39, 19 Mar 2026Updated 10:43, 19 Mar 2026
TINA the musical, , Directed by Phyllida Lloyd with a book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar, and Kees Prins, CHOREOGRAPHER -ANTHONY VAN LAAST, SET & COSTUME DESIGNER – MARK THOMPSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER – BRUNO POET, PROJECTION DESIGNER – JEFF SUGG, HAIR, WIGS & MAKE UP DESIGNER – CAMPBELL YOUNG, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – KATHERINE HARE, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE CHOREOGRAPHER – SIMONE MISTRY-PALMER, Curve theatre, UK, Credit: Johan Persson/
The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll has well and truly arrived in Leeds – and she does not hold back.
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical at the Leeds Grand Theatre is a full-throttle, high-energy celebration of one of music’s most extraordinary lives, and from the very first note, it has the audience completely hooked.
This production is dedicated to the memory of Tina Turner, who sadly passed away in May 2023, adding an extra layer of emotion to an already powerful story. With Leeds marking the final stop on its current tour, in the UK, and five star reviews following it across the country, there was a real sense of anticipation in the air. It felt like a must-see moment, and I could not wait to find out what all the hype was about.
Charting the rise of Tina Turner from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to global superstardom, the show does not shy away from the darker chapters of her story. It is raw, emotional and at times difficult to watch, but it is also uplifting, empowering and ultimately joyful.
TINA the musical, , Directed by Phyllida Lloyd with a book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar, and Kees Prins, CHOREOGRAPHER -ANTHONY VAN LAAST, SET & COSTUME DESIGNER – MARK THOMPSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER – BRUNO POET, PROJECTION DESIGNER – JEFF SUGG, HAIR, WIGS & MAKE UP DESIGNER – CAMPBELL YOUNG, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – KATHERINE HARE, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE CHOREOGRAPHER – SIMONE MISTRY-PALMER, Curve theatre, UK, Credit: Johan Persson/
The performances are nothing short of sensational. The role of Tina is shared on tour, and the performer on the night, Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi, delivered a powerhouse performance, on Wednesday, that captured not only her unmistakable voice but also her resilience, fire and sheer presence. It is not an easy role to step into, but this is a performance that feels authentic rather than an imitation.
Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi’s embodiment of Tina Turner is authentic to the bone. From the way she sings and dances to every subtle movement and mannerism, it is clear this is a carefully crafted portrayal she has completely perfected.
TINA the musical, , Directed by Phyllida Lloyd with a book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar, and Kees Prins, CHOREOGRAPHER -ANTHONY VAN LAAST, SET & COSTUME DESIGNER – MARK THOMPSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER – BRUNO POET, PROJECTION DESIGNER – JEFF SUGG, HAIR, WIGS & MAKE UP DESIGNER – CAMPBELL YOUNG, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – KATHERINE HARE, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE CHOREOGRAPHER – SIMONE MISTRY-PALMER, Curve theatre, UK, Credit: Johan Persson/
She does not simply play Tina, she embodies her, capturing that unmistakable energy and presence that made her a global icon. It is so convincing that as the audience spilled out into the night, one man could be heard saying, “it’s like it was really her,” and honestly, it is hard to disagree.
Opposite her, David King-Yombo as Ike Turner brings an intensity that is both compelling and deeply unsettling. His portrayal adds real weight to the story, ensuring the emotional stakes never feel watered down.
TINA the musical, , Directed by Phyllida Lloyd with a book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar, and Kees Prins, CHOREOGRAPHER -ANTHONY VAN LAAST, SET & COSTUME DESIGNER – MARK THOMPSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER – BRUNO POET, PROJECTION DESIGNER – JEFF SUGG, HAIR, WIGS & MAKE UP DESIGNER – CAMPBELL YOUNG, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – KATHERINE HARE, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE CHOREOGRAPHER – SIMONE MISTRY-PALMER, Curve theatre, UK, Credit: Johan Persson/
It is a performance that clearly struck a chord with the audience. So powerful was his portrayal that during the encore at the end, he was met with boos from the crowd, a rare reaction in a theatre setting but one that speaks volumes. It was not aimed at the actor himself, but rather a testament to just how convincingly he brought the darker side of Ike to life on stage.
The supporting cast bring an incredible energy to the stage, with the dancers, choreography and costumes all playing a huge part in bringing the story to life. Every routine is slick, sharp and packed with attitude, capturing the spirit of each era perfectly.
The Ikettes, in particular, are a standout, moving in perfect sync with a confidence and flair that lights up the stage. Not to mention the costumes, a dazzling parade of sequins, sparkle and statement looks that feel every bit as bold and iconic as the woman herself.
Visually, the production is slick and dynamic, moving seamlessly from the rural American South to the bright lights of global fame. The live band and staging give it the feel of a concert as much as a musical, which works perfectly for a story built on such iconic music.
And then there are of course the songs, which as such a huge part of the show. From “River Deep, Mountain High” to “Private Dancer” and, of course, “The Best”, each number is delivered with electrifying energy. By the time the finale arrives, the theatre transforms into something closer to a stadium gig, with the audience on their feet, clapping, singing and completely swept up in the moment.
What makes this show stand out is its balance. It is not just a jukebox musical packed with hits. It is a story of survival, determination and reinvention. It shows the grit behind the glamour and reminds you exactly why Tina Turner’s legacy still resonates.
TINA the musical, , Directed by Phyllida Lloyd with a book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar, and Kees Prins, CHOREOGRAPHER -ANTHONY VAN LAAST, SET & COSTUME DESIGNER – MARK THOMPSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER – BRUNO POET, PROJECTION DESIGNER – JEFF SUGG, HAIR, WIGS & MAKE UP DESIGNER – CAMPBELL YOUNG, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – KATHERINE HARE, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE CHOREOGRAPHER – SIMONE MISTRY-PALMER, Curve theatre, UK, Credit: Johan Persson/
As it makes its final UK tour stop in Leeds, this production feels like a major event, and judging by the reaction inside the theatre last night, it is one that audiences will not forget any time soon.
If you are looking for a night out that is equal parts moving and exhilarating, this is it. Highly recommend.
Tina -The Tina Turner Musical is at Leeds Grand Theatre from Tuesday, March, 17 to Sat, April, 4. Book your tickets online, here.
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