Tina Turner announces Adrienne Warren will star in upcoming musical

Tina - The Tina Turner Musical has casts its lead, with Turner announcing actress Adrienne Warren would be playing the lead role when the musical opens at the Aldwych Theatre next year.

At an event held in central London, Turner made a rare public appearance alongside director Phyllida Lloyd and producer Tali Pelman.

Warren is a Tony Award-nominated actress who has starred in Shuffle Along at the Music Box Theatre on Broadway, as well as Lin Manuel Miranda's musical Bring It On at the St. James Theatre, and Dreamgirls at the Apollo Theater. She has also appeared in the television series Orange is the New Black, and will make her West End debut as Turner.

Announcing Warren, Turner said: "It has been my joy to introduce Adrienne today.  From the moment I met her at our last workshop I saw her exceptional talent. Playing this role will require immense physical and emotional commitment, and bravery too.

"We are thrilled to have found very much look forward to spending more time together and developing a special friendship I know will grow even stronger as we prepare the production."

Turner joined Warren on stage at the event to perform a medley which included the songs "Proud Mary" and "The Best".

Warren said: "Growing up watching Tina, I knew how to shake my hips before I could tie my shoes!  I am so grateful to our creative team and producers for entrusting me with this responsibility."

Further casting for Tina will be announced in due course.

A series of short documentaries have also been produced following the development of the musical, and will include footage of Lloyd travelling to Switzerland to visit Turner and discuss the musical, and playwright Katori Hall visiting Turner's hometown of Nutbush, Tennessee.

Tina - The Tina Turner Musical will run at the Aldwych Theatre from 21th March 2018.

Tina - The Tina Turner Musical Tickets are available now.