After a spectacular 2024 that had more than 60,000 Tina Turner fans dancing in the aisles, tribute to Tina TurnerWhat’s Love Got To Do With It? is back on tour, and coming to venues including Portsmouth Guildhall (21/2/25) and Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre (9/3/25).
Whether you’ve been a fan of Tina Turner for decades or are discovering her magic for the first time, What’s Love Got To Do With It? promises to leave you uplifted, inspired, and singing along all the way home.
Star of the show Holly Bannis spent a decade singing in pubs, clubs, and restaurants before a TV talent show introduced her to Tina Turner’s music and life story. Now, she tours the UK as the lead in What’s Love Got To Do With It?, the country’s biggest Tina Turner tribute show.
How did you land the role in What’s Love Got To Do With It?
I’d been singing semi-professionally for 10 years while working a day job—music was always part of my life. My dad, Greg Bannis (ex-Hot Chocolate lead singer), was a big influence.
In 2021, I auditioned for Starstruck on ITV, where I had to perform as three icons. Tina was one of my choices. The show happened during lockdown, so I had time to study her performances and style. The What’s Love Got To Do With It? team saw me on TV and got in touch. I started as a backing singer/understudy but stepped into the lead role within a few months. Now, here I am!
What makes Tina Turner such a special artist?
When I prepared for Starstruck, I watched a lot of Tina’s live performances, studying her energy, movements, and mannerisms. But what really struck me was her backstory—her resilience, strength, and how she overcame so much.
She once said she didn’t like her own voice because it was different, which really resonated with me. Learning about her helped me embrace my own voice and understand where I belong musically.
What can audiences expect from What’s Love Got To Do With It?
It’s a full-on concert experience with a 10-piece band, backing singers, dancers, and all of Tina’s biggest hits. We recreate the energy of her live shows—right down to the walk, the moves, and the way she connected with audiences. By the end of the night, it’s a party!
People always tell us how much it feels like a real Tina show. That’s the best compliment we can get.
How did Tina’s passing in May 2023 impact the show?
We were mid-show when she passed, but we didn’t know until the end. The audience’s energy shifted—more phones were out, people were crying. Backstage, we found out why.
Since then, we’ve felt a deeper responsibility to honour her legacy. We haven’t changed the show, but we know it carries more weight now. Fans want to keep her spirit alive, and we’re proud to help do that.
What are your favourite songs to perform?
Private Dancer is a special moment—it starts with dialogue, and you can feel the audience’s anticipation. The lights, the band solos, our sax player stepping forward… it’s magic.
Then there’s Nutbush City Limits, one of the only songs Tina wrote herself. By then, the audience is on their feet, dancing, and the energy is through the roof.
How do you keep up with the demands of touring?
Life on the road is intense—sometimes we drive six hours before even setting up. But we have a great team, and we take care of each other. Staying fit and healthy is key. I warm up and cool down my voice religiously, work with a vocal coach, and keep up with physical training.
Singing as Tina isn’t natural—it’s a very specific sound that takes work to maintain safely. Even now, I still watch her performances and pick up new details to incorporate.
What’s your pre-show ritual for becoming Tina?
After setup and dinner, I start my makeup—Tina’s dark eyeshadow and signature red lip are a must. I put on my first of three wigs and my custom-made costume.
The last step? Red lipstick. That’s when I know I’m ready. Once that’s on, I am Tina until the show is over.
Why should people come see the show?
If you love Tina Turner or rock and roll, this show is for you. Even people who don’t think they know her music are blown away—so many of her songs are classics.
It’s a show for all generations—parents, grandparents, everyone knows and loves Tina. And if you’re not a fan before, you’ll leave as one!
How important is Tina Turner’s legacy?
Tina will always be the Queen of Rock and Roll. Her music is timeless, but her story is just as important. She spoke openly about her struggles at a time when few did, and that changed lives.
For me, this show has been life-changing. Through her music, I’ve found where I truly belong as a performer. Every night on stage is a privilege, and I can’t wait to share that energy with new audiences.
For tickets and more information about the full tour, click here.
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