There’s been another promotion in the cast of Tina – The Tina Turner Musical. And for original cast member Aisha Jawando, it’s simply The Best news: she’s going to be stepping up to play the central role in the show.
Having first played Alline Bullock – Tina’s sister – in the show’s West End and world premiere production, Aisha has subsequently performed as Tina at certain performances. Now, she’s going to be taking the lead from 8 October, with Nkeki Obi-Melekwe headed to the Broadway production.
Tina Turner herself gave her seal of approval, saying: “I first met Aisha during early rehearsals for our show. She was in our original West End Company playing my sister Alline and I loved her performance.
“It has been special to watch her journey with us and see the development of her extraordinary talent. I am so pleased that Aisha will now lead our company through its next chapter here in London.”
Aisha Jawando as Tina in Tina- The Tina Turner Musical (Photo: Manuel Harlan)
Aisha herself added: “I have loved being part of this show from the very beginning, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to play this exceptional role. Tina Turner is such an inspirational woman and I hope that I continue to make her proud.”
Aisha’s previous roles have included the title role in Cinderella at the Hackney Empire, The Life at Southwark Playhouse, and Martha Reeves in the original London cast of Motown The Musical in the West End.
Telling the story of the legendary artist, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical continues its open-ended run in London at the Aldwych Theatre. New seats will go on sale this autumn.