The real Tina Turner:
There have been many times when I’ve been out for the evening and I’ve seen women out in the shortest of dresses – bottom skimmers. I’ve wondered to myself, do they not worry about showing it all when they start to dance. Well I was reminded of my musings when I went to watch the stage show Soul Sister at the Hackney Empire, London, about the life of Tina Turner.
Whenever you see clips of Tina Turner shimmying in the shortest, sparkliest and fringiest of dresses in her hey day, you never ever saw flashes of anything unladylike. She was a master of keeping everything in control while blasting out the most fantastic vocals.
This show also reminds us of what a talent the lady is. The musical, with Emi Wokoma playing Tina, entertains on so many levels. You see here how so many of today’s acts have been influenced. Her backing singers don’t just sing – they join in with all the moves. The live band for the show is also extremely tight with Chris Tummings playing the controversial Ike Turner.
You witness the rise of Tina, Ike and the band and also the abuse handed out to its superstar. All of this is punctuated by amazing live vocals and performances which keep you gripped throughout. The show was rounded off with a live set of Tina’s later hits. The audience gave it a standing ovation. So if you want a show to get your blood pumping, I recommend Soul Sister, if not a tiny mini dress.
Cherrydial 