The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is delighted to announce that Tina – The Tina Turner Musical will take the stage as a part of the Kravis On Broadway series for eight performances on March 12 – 17.
The North American touring cast is led by Ari Groover (TINA Broadway, Head Over Heels, Holler If Ya hear Me, Little Shop of Horrors) and Parris Lewis (Hairspray) who will evenly share the role of Tina Turner, each playing four (of eight) performances a week. Also starring are Deon Releford-Lee as Ike Turner, Roz White as Zelma Bullock, Wydetta Carter as Gran Georgeanna and Sarah Bockel as Rhonda.
The ensemble includes John Battagliese, Brittny Benai Smith, Daelyanna Kelly Benson, Antonio Beverly, Ben Bogen, Karen Burthwright, Brianna Cameron, Andrew Eckert, Amahri Edwards-Jones, Gordia Hayes, Andre Hinds, Crystal Joy, Symphony King, Kendall LeShanti, GiGi Lewis, Natalia Nappo, Nia Nelson-Williams, Terance Reddick, Shari Washington Rhone, Eric Siegle, Christine Suddeth, Rowan Vickers, Dylan S. Wallach, Kristopher Stanley Ward, Gerard M. Williams.
An uplifting comeback story like no other, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.
One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows were seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical originally opened on Broadway on November 7, 2019, was nominated for 12 Tony Awards including Best Musical.
Produced by Stage Entertainment and Ghostlight Records and featuring the original London cast, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical: Original Cast Recording is available worldwide on CD, both online and in stores. The CD features a 20-page booklet, which includes liner notes, synopsis, production and studio photography. The album was recorded in February 2019 at Angel Studios and RAK Studios, produced by the show’s Music Supervisor Nicholas Skilbeck and Kurt Deutsch, and co-produced by Tom Kelly. To download or stream the album, or order the CD, please visit Ghostlightrecords.lnk.to/riverdeep-tinaturnermusical.
When she was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in October, 2021, Tina Turner became one of only three women in the institution’s history to be inducted twice (she was initially inducted in 1991, alongside Ike Turner).
It was a pleasure to sit down with Paris Lewis (Tina) for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
At what age did you begin performing?
I started performing at a young age in church. My mom was a vocalist, so I was naturally singing where she was. I went to performing arts middle school and high school and started performing professionally in the 8th grade.
What was your first professional gig and how much did you get paid?
I don’t remember as I was too young, and I am sure my mom was managing my money at the time.
When did you know performing would be your career?
I’d say about when I was auditioning for high schools. At that point I was becoming very versed in performance, and at that time I had a conversation with my parents that I wanted to do this seriously for a lifetime.
Other than this one, what has been your favorite role so far?
I have also done operas and plays, and my favorite role was Madea in Madea the Greek tragedy. It was one of my first introductions into just acting without singing.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but want to)?
Aida in Aida and Persephone in Hadestown. I would also love to play The Witch in Into the Woods and the Beggar Woman in Sweeny Todd.
Is it intimidating or is there extra pressure playing such an icon?
Yes, and yes. It can be really intimidating but it can also be cool….to do what you know you can do and were chosen to do.
Is it hard being on the road all the time?
Yes, it’s incredibly hard as you miss a lot of life and you kind of feel forgotten sometimes. I miss out on major life events.
How well do you and your castmates get along?
We get along very well. I have been touring for a couple of years now, so I know how to do this.
You are part of the LGBTQ+ community, are you single or taken?
I am in a relationship.
What makes your partner the perfect person for you?
She was my high school sweetheart and my first ever girlfriend when I was 13 years old, and we found our way back to each other years later. We hold space for each other that allows us to grow and allows us to make mistakes. She always chooses me and supports every facet of my life and I do the same for her.
Describe yourself in three words?
Grounded, mysterious, and ever-changing.
What do you do for fun?
I love to people watch, it’s one of my favorite past times. I also like to watch reality TV as people are crazy and it makes me feel saner. I also love to read, do outdoor activities, bowl and sleep.
What should our readers expect from this touring company of, “Tina: The Musical”?
This show is a jam packed thrill ride of Tina’s love, loss, triumph, but also grace. All the beauty that was Tina is encompassed in this show.
For more information on Paris, follow her at: Instagram.com/renaissancewoman_
Individual tickets for Tina – The Tina Turner Musical start at $34 and may be purchased online at Kravis.org. To purchase by phone or in person, call 561.832.7469 or visit the Box Office Monday through Saturday from 12pm to 5pm at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. In West Palm Beach.
