American Idol Finalist Jayna Elise Stars in North American Tour of Tina—The Tina Turner Musical

The North American tour of Tina—The Tina Turner Musical is currently rocking New Brunswick’s State Theatre New Jersey, with American Idol and America’s Got Talent finalist Jayna Elise—formerly Jayna Brown—taking on the iconic role of the late music legend Tina Turner.

Elise shares the demanding role with Mona Swain as the tour brings the life story of the Grammy-winning powerhouse to audiences across over 60 cities. The non-Equity tour officially kicked off on September 24 at Akron’s EJ Thomas Hall and will continue to roll across North America in 2024.

The star-studded cast features Sterling Baker-McClary as Ike Turner/Ronnie Turner, Elaina Walton as Zelma Bullock, Deidre Lang as Gran Georgeanna, and Kristen Daniels as Rhonda Graam/Toni Basil. The ensemble includes a talented group of performers, such as Maurice Alpharicio, Catrina Brenae, and many others.

The musical, which originally premiered in 2018 at London’s Aldwych Theatre, chronicles the remarkable life of Tina Turner, from her humble beginnings to her rise as a global rock icon. The Broadway production followed in 2019, where Tony Award-winner Adrienne Warren starred in the titular role before the show closed in 2022.

The Tina Turner Musical features a creative team led by director Phyllida Lloyd, known for her work on Mamma Mia!, with choreography by Anthony van Laast and additional music by Nicholas Skilbeck. The stunning set and costume design come from Mark Thompson, while lighting is crafted by Bruno Poet and sound design by Nevin Steinberg. The show also boasts intricate projection designs by Jeff Sugg and wig, hair, and makeup design by Campbell Young Associates, ensuring Tina’s signature look is faithfully recreated.

Produced by Crossroads Live North America, the tour celebrates the indomitable spirit of Tina Turner, inviting audiences to relive her greatest hits, including “Proud Mary” and “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” while exploring the personal struggles she overcame on her path to superstardom.

For those looking to catch a glimpse of the iconic story brought to life, the production will remain in New Brunswick before continuing its journey through cities across North America.

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