Despite the unfortunate passing of music icon Tina Turner earlier this year, her legendary music lives on through the talented cast of “Tina, the Tina Turner Musical.” This touring show will be gracing the Buell Theatre in Denver on October 18th.
The show brings back the iconic concert ambiance that Tina Turner was renowned for, just as her devoted fans would anticipate. From the moment the theater lights fade, the audience actively contributes to cultivating that electric atmosphere.
Roz White, an actress in the show, emphasized the significance of the audience, stating that there is nothing quite like experiencing their roar as the curtain rises and they catch a glimpse of the legs and wig. She expressed that this moment is the culmination of all their hard work.
Prior to their visit to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, the show’s cast had the privilege of participating in exclusive advanced interviews with CBS News Colorado’s Dillon Thomas. In these interviews, all the cast members expressed their admiration for the show’s remarkable talent in engaging the audience and making them an active participant rather than mere spectators.
“A cast member, Tiki Hopson, emphasized that the audience is our final ingredient.”
“The other character in the show is them,” stated Karen Burthwright, the show’s dance captain.
In addition to standing and dancing throughout the performance, some audience members enthusiastically sing along, while many go the extra mile and dress up as Tina Turner.
Hopson said, “We witness individuals donning wigs and sporting leather dresses paired with jean coats. When they arrive, they truly go all out.”
“According to Burthwright, they arrive prepared to celebrate and fully immerse themselves in the event.”
Although the show delves into various serious and occasionally weighty subjects, it guarantees to inspire a desire to dance along with its songs.
Ari Groover, the actress playing Tina, expressed, “These songs hold significant meaning for individuals. They evoke a sense of nostalgia. I can observe in the crowd who connects with each particular song. It’s amazing how a song can transport you back to a specific memory from when you first heard it.”
The members of the cast expressed their delight in engaging with the audience and assisting them in reliving an authentic Tina Turner concert experience.
According to White, the heart of a performer is the connection they have with the audience.
Brianna Cameron, a 10-year-old actress in the show, expressed her joy in witnessing the audience’s enjoyment of their performance. She emphasized their love for what they do and their purpose of bringing delight to the audience, who enthusiastically sings and dances along to the turning big wheel.
The performance commences and concludes with an electrifying Tina Turner concert. The stage design seamlessly transports the audience from behind the scenes to the center of attention, prompting numerous people to joyfully rise and join in the dancing and singing.
Hopson stated that nothing compares to the satisfaction of providing the audience with precisely what they were seeking. The tribute we are paying is to a true icon.
Symphony King, a 9-year-old actress in the show, expressed, “The show exudes an incredible amount of energy. The vibrant lights, the enthusiastic crowd, and the dazzling costumes create a captivating and colorful experience that you simply can’t help but enjoy.”
“Tina, the Tina Turner Musical” plays the Buell Theatre Oct. 18 through the 29. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/3tt89EF
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is proudly sponsored by CBS News Colorado.
