The Tina Turner tribute at the Spa Pavilion was a lot of fun!
We all go into a tribute show with a level of expectation, I don’t know why we do because the performer on the stage is NOT supposed to be an impressionist, they are supposed to bring the energy, enthusiasm and style of the act they are representing in order to celebrate the celebrity and their contribution to music and entertainment.
Oh and what a celebration of Tina Tuner we had!! Holly Bannis, as Tina Turner was amazing! The show kicked off with ‘Steamy Windows’ with a full band, backing singers, lights, costume and of course a Tina wig, Holly belted out the first song with big passion and a big voice. It was a fabulous start and we did have to look twice as Holly totally looked the part.
It was practically back to back tracks for the whole night, mainly to get in as many great Tina Turner songs into the show as possible. There were several times Holly chatted with the audience, making sure we were having a good time and mentioning dates and/or albums the songs came from: it’s always nice to have those reminders to jog our minds and bring back our favourite memories of listening to Tina’s songs during our lives. And with a constant smile on her face Holly encouraged us to sing along to the songs and join in the atmosphere – which we did.
Tracks included all the hits such as Private Dancer, I Don’t Want to Lose You, I Can’t Stand The Rain, We Don’t Need Another Hero, Goldeneye, What’s Love Got to Do With It, but also included album tracks such as What You Get Is What You See.
As with a show like this there is never enough time for all the great songs therefore we had a couple of fabulous medleys and towards the end there were extended version of Nutbush City Limits and Proud Mary as the audience were having our own moment of being part of the show.
There were extended instrumental sections either at the end or the start of a song, which were wonderful to listen to the talented musicians, it was a ruse though as Holly was off stage changing costumes and wigs for the next set of songs. It added so much depth and joy when the outfits and the hair fitted the Tina era, I know it’s an obvious thing to do, but it really makes a positive difference to the audience’s enjoyment.
Holly looked fabulous in each outfit and really brought the spirit of Tina to the stage, she was constantly smiling and dancing. Her moves emulated Tina’s and it was great to see, even the shoulder shrugs were there and again, added so much to the performance. The dresses were of course Tina Turner short and Holly had the perfect legs for them.
Top marks for the continued energy from Holly, the backing singers and the band and very top marks for Holly to be dancing and jumping about in those high heels!
It really was a fabulous celebration of Tina Turner and her amazing songs. I had such an enjoyable night and Holly’s voice was wonderful.
With thanks to the Spa Pavilion.
Here is my Video review: