As the iconic music and electrifying story of Tina Turner prepare to take the stage at Liverpool Empire this August, audiences are eagerly anticipating the powerhouse performances that bring the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll to life. But behind every sensational lead, there’s a vital force ensuring the show always goes on: the understudy.
Today, we have the immense pleasure of sitting down with Bree Smith, the talented musical actress who stands ready to step into Tina Turner’s formidable shoes at a moment’s notice.
Bree’s journey to this pivotal role is one built on a strong foundation of diverse theatrical experience. From the heartfelt narratives of Come From Away and Titanic the Musical to the vibrant energy of The Color Purple and The Wiz, her career has seen her embody a rich tapestry of characters, showcasing her versatility and undeniable stage presence.
Being an off-stage understudy is a unique challenge, demanding not only exceptional vocal and acting prowess but also an unwavering readiness to command the stage at any given performance. It’s a testament to Bree’s dedication and skill that she holds such a crucial position in one of the West End’s most celebrated productions, now gracing Liverpool.
Liverpool Noise’s Steve Kinrade delved into Bree’s world, exploring the intricacies of her role, the demands of stepping into such an iconic character, and the unique perspective of an artist who is always prepared to shine in the spotlight…
As Standby Tina Turner, what is the biggest challenge and the greatest reward in stepping into such an iconic role?
Bree Smith: The biggest challenge is that I always have to be prepared, mentally and physically. Even when not performing full time, I need to keep up the stamina and fitness required for the role. The greatest reward is the incredible feedback I get from the audience live, via social media and at stage door.
How do you prepare yourself mentally and physically to be ready to perform as Tina Turner at any given moment?
BS: I do warm up and fight call with the company, and then I prepare my wig and make up. I often do a little workout during the show in my dressing room to keep up my fitness and keep warm in the event of needing to go on mid-show (which has happened before!). I try to keep busy by watching videos of Tina and reading (I am on her second book now) and I also watch the show every few weeks.
What aspects of Tina Turner’s incredible life story resonate most with you personally, and how do you bring that understanding to your performance?
BS: Her resilience and her fight. I strive for what I want in life and what I deserve. I never stop practicing my craft. I still take class as much as I can and do so much research on every role I get. I really try and embody Tina as much as I can whilst not copying her or trying to be her. That would be an impossible task. But I want the audience to suspend their disbelief and feel like they are watching Tina onstage.
Beyond the powerful vocals, what specific mannerisms or characteristics of Tina Turner do you focus on to embody her on stage?
BS: Her wonderful shoulders within choreography and her huge, inviting smile. Also, the way she never stopped moving whilst on stage, and her relaxed but energised energy. During Act 1, I focus on her youthfulness and during Act 2, her self-assurance and confidence.
You’ve trained at the Arts Educational School. How did your training there prepare you for the demands of a role like Tina Turner?
BS: It prepared me in a way to know what my body and voice needs for each show. It’s a triple threat role and ArtsEd focussed on all three disciplines highly.
Looking back at your previous roles in shows like The Color Purple, Titanic the Musical, and The Book of Mormon, how have those experiences shaped you as a performer and prepared you for Tina – The Tina Turner Musical?
BS: With each role I perform I take a little something I’ve learnt from it and bring it to the next one. I have had a very varied career in terms of the roles I have played, and I feel very blessed to have been able to take on those roles. Each show teaches you something different, from stamina, to perfecting quick changes, to getting fully ready at the half, to learning lines. So now that I am over 10 years into my career, I have a lot of experience but I am also learning new things every day and have a long way to go.
Is there a particular song in Tina – The Tina Turner Musical that you find most challenging or most rewarding to perform, and why?
BS: The most challenging song would be “Hero”. It comes straight after a sad scene, and I must make sure my voice doesn’t stay sat in the position it was for the previous scene as the song uses full range. The song I most enjoy is “River Deep”. I have sung that song for years and within the show it is the pivotal moment when Tina believes in herself and decides she can do this on her own.
What is it like to be part of such a high-energy and visually spectacular production?
BS: I feel so blessed every day I come to work. I can barely call it work because I enjoy it so much. That is not to say it isn’t hard or doesn’t come with challenges, but I wouldn’t be in this industry if I didn’t love it. The audience’s reaction just warms my heart especially in the Mega Mix at the end of the show!
Are there any particular moments in the musical that you think will surprise or deeply move the audience?
BS: Yes, without giving away too many spoilers, there will be many aspects of Tina’s life that people probably didn’t know about because in the public eye she always came across confident, bold and happy. However, she went through a lot of trauma and because she is a fighter and a Queen, she came out on top and overcame anyone who tried to put her down.
What are you most looking forward to about performing in Liverpool and at the Liverpool Empire Theatre specifically?
BS: I love Liverpool. It is so close to where I grew up so I would always go to Liverpool for shopping or to watch shows myself. It is such a beautiful theatre, and huge! I always feel so welcomed there. I was there last year with Come from Away and can’t wait to be back with Tina!
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical
12 – 23 August
Liverpool Empire Theatre
Tickets
