REVIEW: Tina – The Tina Turner Musical at Sunderland Empire

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical 

Sunderland Empire

Until Saturday 5 April 2025

The vibrant and soul-stirring Tina – The Tina Turner Musical has arrived in Sunderland. As part of its inaugural UK and Ireland tour, the show takes over the Sunderland Empire until Saturday, April 5th, 2025, delivering an unforgettable, high-energy tribute to one of music’s most iconic figures. If you’ve ever felt the empowering magic of Tina Turner’s music, this production will leave you inspired.

It is the case the jukebox musicals about a single musical act tend to go one of three ways: Sticking to the story of the act (eg Buddy); just making the show a dance and singing tribute (eg Thriller); or just starting the story in the first act before giving up and just having a concert in act 2 (eg. Jersey Boys). This show follows the tread laid by the 1993 movie What's Love Got To Do With It and gives the turbulent life behind the successful career of the lady born as Anna Mae Bullock.   

Thus this Tina Turner musical is not merely a concert celebrating a legendary artist; it’s a powerful, emotional rollercoaster that traces the life and career of Tina Turner from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her rise as an international superstar. The production beautifully captures the personal and professional struggles she faced, showcasing the trials, triumphs, and sheer resilience that made Tina Turner a symbol of strength and perseverance.

The early years of singing too loud in church, much to the annoyance of her mother, introduces us to local actor Chizaram Ochuba-Okafor who plays Young Anna Mae Bullock with real enthusiasm. It was a pleasure to see her in the later stages, complete with a duet with the later Tina. This young actor is definitely one to watch for the future. It is also worth noting the audience reaction (an audible gasp) when Anna Mae's mother, Zelma (Letitia Hector) was first struck by her abusive preacher Dad Richard (Rushand Chambers). It was an early sign into the emotional investment that the audience were putting into the show. It is a relief when Tina moves in with her Gran Georgeanna (Claude East). 

The musical dives deep into the defining moments of Tina’s life, including her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner and her eventual transformation into the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The blend of her triumphant return to the stage after escaping years of hardship and the infectious energy of her performances adds depth to a narrative we all thought we knew. However, it’s not just about Tina’s hardships — it’s about her ultimate triumph, resilience, and the transformative power of music.

At the heart of this production is the role of Tina Turner, and the show truly shines. The role is shared between Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi and Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy. On press night we had the delightful Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi. From her vocal power to her infectious stage presence, she commanded the stage with confidence, grace, and raw energy. N’Zuzi’s portrayal is nothing short of captivating — she brings an intensity and emotional depth to the role that echoes the fire that Tina herself embodied throughout her career. 

The chemistry between Tina and their supporting cast members creates a cohesive, powerful experience that makes the audience feel as if they’re not just watching a musical — they’re witnessing Tina Turner’s legacy unfold right before their eyes.

No production of Tina would be complete without the presence of Ike Turner, and David King-Yombo's portrayal of the infamous figure is masterful. While the role of Ike is undeniably complex, King-Yombo’s performance adds nuance to what could easily have been a one-dimensional villain. His portrayal is magnetic and chilling, capturing both the charisma and cruelty that defined Ike’s relationship with Tina. It’s a testament to King-Yombo’s acting chops that he can elicit both disdain and sympathy in equal measure, underscoring the complexity of their dynamic. There was an almost panto like reaction at the curtain call which is a show of how the audience had engaged with him.

The musical numbers are the true heartbeat of this production, and the audience is treated to a showcase of Tina Turner’s iconic hits. From What’s Love Got To Do With It to Proud Mary, the show delivers a potent mix of Tina’s greatest songs, all performed live by the incredibly talented ensemble. The choreography, blending elements of rock ‘n’ roll with Tina’s unmistakable style, is a visual feast that gets the audience moving in their seats.

Of course, no Tina Turner tribute would be complete without her signature costumes, designed by Mark Thompson, and this show delivers in spades. The glittering dresses, thigh-high boots, and feathered ensembles capture the glamour and flair of Tina’s stage presence. The stunning costumes are matched by a set design that evolves seamlessly to mirror the various stages of Tina’s life, creating a stage world that feels as bold and dynamic as the woman herself. Lighting and projections are used to excellent effect, enhancing the atmosphere and bringing the world of Tina Turner to life in vivid colour.

In addition to the power of the music and costumes, the production excels in its portrayal of Tina Turner’s indomitable spirit. It’s a celebration not just of the music that made her a household name, but of her personal resilience and fierce determination. The show is a testament to the universal message of overcoming adversity and finding strength in one’s self, making it a production that resonates on a deeply human level.

The Sunderland Empire has proven to be the perfect venue for this fabulous musical. The space allows the audience to connect with the performers, creating an energy that’s electric and unforgettable. Whether you’ve been a fan of Tina Turner for decades or you’re just now discovering the magic of her music, this production is worth a visit to Wearside.

In short, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical is a dazzling, exhilarating celebration of one of music’s greatest legends. With sensational performances, stunning costumes, and a soundtrack that will have you humming for days, this is a musical that will make you stand up, sing, and feel empowered in ways you never expected. Tina Turner’s legacy is alive and well in this unforgettable production, which is possibly the best biographical jukebox musical about a music act.

Review: Stephen Oliver

Photos: Johan Persson

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Tickets:

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical will hit Sunderland Empire’s stage from Wednesday 26 March – Saturday 5 April 2025. Tickets available online now at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland*

* A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings. 

REVIEW: Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake the Next Generation Theatre Royal Newcastle

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake the Next Generation

Theatre Royal Newcastle

Until Saturday 5 April 2025

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake changed the landscape of ballet when it was first staged in 1995. Bourne’s masterstroke of reimagining the swans as male and his clever updating of the story created a cultural phenomenon that has swept all before it. In its 30 th year, it feels as fresh and vibrant as ever, a thrilling evening of genre-defying dance entertainment.

Nobody was quite prepared for Matthew Bourne’s reimagining of, perhaps, the most iconic of classical ballets. Since its premiere in 1877, it had been constantly revived and reinvented, but nobody had envisaged replacing the poetic and lyrical corps of female swans with male dancers. Bourne, of course is not just an imaginative and highly skilled choreographer, he is also a bold and inspired director, and his vision has been enthusiastically received across the world. The image of the male swans in Lez Brotherston’s terrific costumes has become an icon of dance in the modern era, and with good reason.

The narrative centres on a young and insecure prince, denied affection by his aloof mother, who is uneasy and isolated in his ceremonial role. He is pursued by a glamorous, but inept, society girl – clad, of course, in Barbie pink – but is insecure in his sexuality. After a disastrous, drunken venture out into fashionable disco society, where he is trapped into newspaper notoriety by his mother’s scheming private secretary, he contemplates suicide on the banks of the lake.

A flock of swans appears at the critical moment, led at this performance by Jackson Fisch. He is captivated by them and falls under the spell of their leader, repenting of his wish to end it all.

This is followed by a royal ball, where a charismatic stranger appears and effortlessly seduces all the eligible females, including the queen. Sensing the relationship between the stranger and the swan, the prince watches with growing distress until, finally, the stranger dances alone with him. He brings him to a high emotional pitch before apparently spurning him in favour of his mother. The Prince’s jealousy drives him to drastic action and tragedy inevitably ensues.

Bourne’s choreography is inventive and surprising throughout. Make no mistake, the story may have been modernised, but the dance idiom is still, emphatically, classical ballet. The swans are realised through sinewy, masculine movements, atavistic and exciting. Their clever arm shapings are magical in evoking the birds they represent.

Fisch brings a sultry, persuasive bad-boy charisma to both characterisations, tempered by moments of tenderness and a hint of vulnerability. He is commanding even amongst the rumbustious corps of swans and exquisite in the pas de deux with Stephen Murray’s tortured prince. Strong and athletic, seeming at times to hang in the air, his dancing is magnetic. Murray brings a different vulnerability and emotional energy, employing his flawless technique in a contrasting style so that despite his efforts to mimic the swan, he always seems tragically constrained by his inflexible human nature.

Nicole Kabera’s queen is imperious, icily sexy and dripping with Hollywood glamour, always framed, rather than overwhelmed, by Brotherston’s fabulous gowns. Bryony Wood balances comedy, real emotion and characterful dancing in a superb performance as the hapless girlfriend. Cameron Flynn is appropriately pompous and stiff as the private secretary.

The rest of the company match them in great style, effortlessly adapting from boisterous swans to brisk soldiers or from prim maids to vampish debutantes.

The whole production is fabulously stylish, slickly comparing the corrupt mores of supposedly polite society with the savagery of nature. I have made mention of the costumes but Brotherston’s imposing, impressionistic scenery contributes equally to stimulating both the eye and the emotions.

Through his company, New Adventures, Bourne has an extensive programme of training and developing dancers and, impressively, 56% of this company has taken part in one of these development schemes. Perhaps there were one or two technical inconsistencies with some younger dancers, but the quality of this company stands as a ringing endorsement of those training opportunities.

In short, this terrific production feels as new and relevant as ever. It thrills and engages throughout, delivering the highest standards of dance and entertainment. The standing ovation from a normally reticent ballet audience was richly deserved. 

Review: Jonathan Cash

Photos: Johan Persson

Tickets:

Tickets available from https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/matthew-bournes-swan-lake/

Preview: Goodnight Mister Tom at Newcastle People's Theatre

Next week at the People’s Theatre in Heaton, Michelle Magorian’s much-loved classic Goodnight Mister Tom.

 

Goodnight Mister Tom

Newcastle People's Theatre

Tuesday 1 – Saturday 5 April 2025

Adapted by David Wood from the novel by Michelle Magorian

As World War Two looms, young William Beech is evacuated to the English countryside to stay with elderly recluse Tom Oakley. This unlikely pairing gradually form a friendship, finding that neither are how they first seem.

Since its publication in 1981, Michelle Magorian's hugely successful first novel Goodnight Mister Tom has sold millions of copies and been translated into multiple languages, as well as being adapted for television starring the late John Thaw.

Dexter White (William) & Keith Wigham (Tom)
Photo: Charlotte Smith

This stage adaptation by David Wood premiered at the Chichester Festival Theatre in 2011, and went on to win the 2013 Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family.

Wood has a hugely successful track record in adapting children’s novels for the stage, his credits including Babe The Sheep Pig, The BFG and The Witches.

In this production at the People’s Theatre, young local actors Dexter White and Nathaniel Campbell are role-sharing the demanding leading role of eight-year-old evacuee William. William is timid and anxious when he first arrives in the village of Little Weirwold, but his friendship with gruff-but-kind Tom (Keith Wigham) helps him to feel safer, and come out of his shell. Life seems perfect until William’s mother devastatingly summons him back to London.

Mister Tom (Keith Wigham) with Nathaniel and Dexter as William in rehearsals
Photo: Charlotte Smith

A testament to the enduring power of kindness, compassion and love, Magorian’s Goodnight Mister Tom has resonated with readers for over 40 years, and this is an opportunity to see this much-loved tale and its characters brought to life on stage.

Tickets:

Tickets are available from the People’s Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at www.peoplestheatre.co.uk

Preview: Sunny Afternoon at Sunderland Empire

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Kink’s musical Sunny Afternoon returns to Sunderland Empire in November 

Sunny Afternoon 

Sunderland Empire 

Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 November 2025

Sonia Friedman Productions and ATG Productions are delighted to announce that the multi Olivier Award-winning hit musical Sunny Afternoon will return for a 2025/2026 UK tour visiting Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 November 2025. Casting will be be announced soon. 

Ray Davies explained, “In these times of political uncertainties, it is a relief to know that Sunny Afternoon is on the horizon to lift our spirits”. 

 Photo: Kevin Cummins

Producer Sonia Friedman added, “From the moment Ray Davies, Joe Penhall, Ed Hall, and I began developing this musical, I knew it was something extremely special, and it proved to be so as we opened to rave reviews and won many awards. Now, I’m thrilled that we’re bringing back our joyous, celebratory, Olivier Award-winning Best New Musical for a new UK tour. Ray Davies’ music and lyrics capture the poetry and poignancy of everyday life with honesty and wit, and The Kinks’ music, attitude and vibe shaped a generation. Their astonishing legacy continues to resonate, making Sunny Afternoon as exhilarating and relevant today as ever. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or experiencing it all over again, I can’t wait for audiences across the UK to see it — I’ve truly missed it.”

The North East Theatre Guide saw the show back in 2016 and we said “Sunny Afternoon is a celebration of one of the great 60s British bands that captured the spirit of the times. Great songs and faithful storyline add together to create a musical to cherish.” REVIEW LINK

Sunny Afternoon celebrates the raw energy, passion and timeless sound of one of Britain’s most iconic bands, The Kinks. Charting the euphoric highs and agonising lows, it tells their story through an incredible back catalogue of chart-toppers, including “You Really Got Me,” “Lola,” and “All Day and All of the Night.” 

 Photo: Kevin Cummins

Sunny Afternoon was the recipient of four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for Ray Davies

Set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious '60s, Sunny Afternoon  is an exhilarating and moving celebration of the music, life, and the band that changed it all. 

Following a sell-out run at Hampstead Theatre, Sunny Afternoon opened to critical acclaim at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London’s West End where it ran for two years ahead of its sensational sell-out tour of the UK and Ireland throughout 2016/17.

 Photo: Kevin Cummins

Sunny Afternoon has music and lyrics by Ray Davies with a book by Joe Penhall and original story by Ray Davies. It is directed by Edward Hall and designed by Miriam Buether with choreography by Adam Cooper. Lighting design is by Rick Fisher with sound design by Matt McKenzie. Musical and vocal adaptations are by Ray Davies and Elliott Ware based on original Kinks’ recordings. 

On The Web: www.thekinksmusical.com/uktour

 

Tickets:

Sunny Afternoon will hit Sunderland Empire’s stage from Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 November 2025. General ticket on sale Friday 28 March at 10am at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland *

* A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings.

Cast: The Bench

Final Team Sheet Announced for The Bench by Jeff Brown

A CaroleW Productions & Gala Durham Co-Production

The Bench - A moving tale of love, loss and football

Written by Jeff Brown 

Directed by Olivia Millar-Ross

Touring the North East & Cumbria: Thursday 22 May - Saturday 21 June 2025

CaroleW Productions and Gala Durham are delighted to announce the full team sheet for The Bench, a moving and humorous play about love, loss and football, written by broadcaster and playwright Jeff Brown. The highly anticipated regional tour will kick off on Thursday 22 May 2025 at Gala Durham, with fixtures scheduled across the North East and Cumbria before concluding on Saturday 21 June 2025 at The Customs House in South Shields.

Jeff Brown
Photo: Cultured. North East

Newly announced fixtures include stops at Live Theatre in Newcastle, Monkwearmouth Academy in Sunderland - where Jeff attended school - and community spaces across the region as part of the Highlights Rural Touring Scheme.

The talented cast for the play includes Jason Njoroge, Hannah Marie Davis, Abigail Lawson, Dan Howe and David Nellist.

“This cast embodies everything we hoped for – talent, passion, and a deep understanding of the characters’ journeys, and I can’t wait to see them bring The Bench to life” said Jeff. “On the surface, it’s a boy-meets-girl story, but there’s so much more beneath it – themes of poverty, racism, and searching for your place in the world. Even the title has layers of meaning, from where the characters meet to Adi’s struggles on the substitutes’ bench, and the feeling that both of them are waiting for their chance. It’s a play packed with humour and heart, and if it can spark conversations and bring people together, then that’s something really special.”

The Bench tells the story of Vicky (Hannah Marie Davis), a single mother struggling with the pressures of daily life, and Adi (Jason Njoroge), a young footballer striving to find his place both on and off the pitch. Though from different worlds, their unexpected meeting on a park bench reveals shared struggles and unlikely hope. Abigail Lawson plays Becs, Vicky’s best friend, with David Nellist as Mike, Ali’s agent. Dan Howe completes this stellar ensemble cast.

With its sharp wit, heartfelt storytelling, and relatable characters, The Bench is much more than a play about football - it’s a touching and entertaining story about life, resilience and connection.

Whether you’re a football fanatic or don’t know the offside rule, this is a feel-good night out filled with laughter, warmth, and a few surprises along the way.

Carole Wears of CaroleW Productions, co-producer of The Bench said: “We’re beyond excited to share The Bench with audiences. It’s a play brimming with emotion that tackles big themes with humour and a touch of football magic. But you don’t have to be a football fan to enjoy it - this is a story about people, about life’s ups and downs, and about finding connection in the most unexpected places. We want audiences to come along, have a brilliant night out, and experience the kind of theatre that stays with you after the final whistle. This production is part of CaroleW Productions commitment to making theatre with heart, right here in the North East of England.”

Learning Engagement activity for The Bench is supported by the North East Combined Authority and Show Racism the Red Card, the UK’s leading anti-racism educational charity. An early version of The Bench premiered at The Customs House in South Shields, in 2023.

Tickets:

For full tour dates, visit: www.carolewproductions.com/the-bench 

Suitability: Approx. 2 hours including an interval

Duration: 14+

Full Tour Dates & Venues

• Thursday 22 May 1pm & 7.30pm, Friday 23 May, 7.30pm & Saturday 24 May, 2.30pm & 7.30pm – Gala Durham

• Tuesday 27 May, 7.30pm - Coundon & Leeholme Community Centre

• Wednesday 28 May, 2.30pm & 7.30pm – The Exchange 1856, North Shields

• Thursday 29 May, 7.30pm - Askham & Helton Community Centre, Cumbria*

• Friday 30 May, 7.30pm - Kentmere Institute, Cumbria*

• Saturday 31 May, 7.30pm - Hamsterley Village Hall, County Durham*

• Sunday 1 June, 7.30pm - Great Whittington Village Hall, Northumberland*

• Wednesday 4 June, 7.30pm – Middlesbrough Town Hall

• Thursday 5 June, 7.30pm – Arts Centre Washington

• Friday 6 June, 7.30pm - Alnwick Playhouse

• Sunday 8 June, 3pm – St Johns Hall Meadowfield, County Durham

• Tuesday 10 June, 12.45pm & 7.30pm – Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, Hexham

• Wednesday 11 June, 7.30pm, Thursday 12 June, 1pm & 7.30pm, Friday 13 June, 7.30pm and Saturday 14 June, 7.30pm - Live Theatre

• Tuesday 17 June, 7pm - Monkwearmouth Academy, Sunderland

• Wednesday 18 June, 1pm & 7.30pm – Bishop Auckland Town Hall

• Thursday 19 June, 7.30pm - Saltburn Community Theatre

• Friday 20 & Saturday 21 June, 7.30pm – The Customs House, South Shields

*These dates are presented as part of the Highlights Rural Touring Scheme.

Interview: Adam Strong, Rocky Horror Show in Darlington

 Talking Frankly With Adam Strong

North East born Adam Strong will be donning his best pair of fishnet stocking as he struts on to the Darlington Hippodrome stage as Frank n Furter in the UK Tour of The Rocky Horror Show at the end of March. We spoke to Adam about the show, his role and his stage highlights.

Adam Strong (Frank n Furter)
Photo:  David Freeman

Age, partner, kids, pets?? Where you live now? When did you first realise you had some talent - was it encouraged at school? At home?

I have 5 dogs at the family home, I’m based just outside of Durham, but I’m always on the tour. 

My sister was a dancer for many years, and I used to love watching her, especially in the Panto at the Sunderland Empire, which she did for many years. She was the one who encouraged me to get started in musical theatre and helped me land my first role in the Sound of Music at the Sunderland Empire.

Adam Strong (Frank n Furter)
Photo:  David Freeman

Tell me a bit about your childhood, growing up in the North East. Do you still consider yourself a North-Easterner? Do you still have your Sunderland accent?

I very much consider myself as someone from the North East. My accent is quite mild now. But it certainly comes out when I speak to my Mam, or when I’m at home. 

What was the first major role you played and where?

My first musical as an adult was Jesus Christ Superstar, the Arena tour, Starring Tim Minchin and Mel C, I played a priest and understudied the role of Annas. I had the most amazing time touring the world with that show and performing in an arena was just unbelievable.

Adam Strong (Frank n Furter)
Photo:  David Freeman

You've performed all over the world. What have been the highlights (venues and roles).

I have many career highlights, I think performing opposite Brian May for our Gala Performance of We Will Rock You will always stick out as being one of my proudest moments. The North East always has a special place in my heart, so anytime I get to come home to perform is a blessing. 

Have you played Frank n Furter before - what do you love about the role?

I haven’t played Frank before until this tour, it has always been a dream and goal of mine. It’s such an empowering role and I get to sing all of my favourite songs and be part of the cult musical’s history. 

Adam Strong

Are you looking forward to performing back in the region and will you be visiting family while you are here? Do you get to come back home to Sunderland much? And when you do, what are your favourite places in the region to visit?

I can’t wait to bring the show back to the North East, I’ve got a lot of friends and family who are coming to support me. I’ll be staying at my house which is rare and my parents live on the same street as me, so I can’t wait for some home cooked food and to get to see the dogs. I get back home when I can, it just all depends on my tour schedule, I’m quite south for a lot of this tour, so not as much as I’d like. I’m looking forward to getting some fresh sea air when I’m home and having some proper fish and chips, nobody does it like we do. 

What's next on the Adam Strong agenda?

As for what’s next, it’s way too early to say, I’m with Rocky Horror until the end of August, so I haven’t even started auditioning for the next project as yet.  

Tickets:

The Rocky Horror Show runs at Darlington Hippodrome from Monday 31 March to Saturday 5 April. For full details or to book visit www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01325 405405