With 180 million records sold and hits like "Simply
the Best" and "Private Dancer," Tina Turner, 78, has led a life worth
singing about.
" Tina: The Tina Turner Musical" chronicles the life of the American
singer, from humble beginnings in Tennessee, to her turbulent and
abusive marriage with Ike Turner, to her solo-career success at age
45. The musical, which premiered in London, will open in Germany next
year.
In an interview with dpa, the singer explains why she was initially
not enthusiastic about the idea of a musical about her life and how
her attitude changed.
dpa: What were your first thoughts when you heard about the idea of a
musical about your life?
Turner: When my husband Erwin first suggested a musical, I thought, I
don't need it! After 50 years of being on stage, I was happy being
retired and I didn't need another show, I didn't need a musical! But
I still get so many cards and letter from my fans, who say I gave
them hope, so this musical is for them, as a reminder and legacy of
my work.
dpa: Isn't it difficult to put a whole life with highs and lows into
a musical?
Turner: Yes, it was, and it was very important for me and the
producers that we didn't gloss over the difficult times and that we
would portray my life honestly and with integrity, both the highs and
the lows.
dpa: What were your contributions to the West End production?
Turner: It was a very special experience to be so closely involved
over four years, working with the producers, our writer Katori [Hall]
and director Phyllida [Lloyd] especially on the script and the
casting. And the choreography, of course - I am ready for more
sessions in the dance studio with our German cast!
dpa: What were your impressions after the premiere in London?
Turner: It really knocked me out to be sitting in my seat on opening
night and see my life performed on stage. It made me laugh, they
captured everyone from my past so brilliantly. And I was moved - they
found the love that was at the heart of my story.
dpa: Will you also be involved in the Hamburg production?
Turner: Yes, this show has been such a personal journey for me, and
I'm not letting go of it! Like in London I am very excited to reveal
who will be playing me. I am also very curious to see how we are
going to treat the music in the German language and have been
impressed by the thoughtfulness that is going into deciding which
songs we are going to translate.
dpa: Do you speak any German?
Turner: I have taken some lessons but it's still a challenge, like
for most people!
dpa: What do you like about Germany?
Turner: I love the water, the fresh breeze when you visit the Hamburg
harbour.
dpa: Will you come to the Hamburg premiere in March 2019?
Turner: Yes, I very much look forward to what will be a very special
evening for me and Erwin.
dpa: You're a symbol of woman-power, independence and courage.
Difficult to imagine that it hasn't always been like this. How did
you manage to develop such inner strength?
Turner: In the early days Ike Turner was the star. And I was the
Cinderella. And there was nothing given to Tina. There were many
times where I got really knocked out. Sometimes I have stood on stage
and had pain that you cannot imagine. But you go through it. You have
to suffer with it, you have to sweat with it. Where did that come
from? That came from heaven.
dpa: What would be your advice for younger women to be strong and
independent?
Turner: It is possible to turn poison into medicine!