Tina Turner tribute confirmed to headline NRL Grand Final entertainment
The NRL has revealed an exciting highlight for this year’s NRL and NRLW Telstra Premiership Grand Final, a special performance by TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL that will take centre stage at Sydney’s Accor Stadium on Sunday, October 1.
In a memorable moment from 1988, Turner was enlisted by the NSW Rugby League (NSWRL) to lead a campaign for the prestigious Winfield Cup, with the aim of captivating new fans for the sport. Her involvement in this iconic marketing effort transformed her into the face of the NRL, and her hit song (Simply) The Best officially became the anthem of the sporting league in 1990.
“Thirty years on, Tina Turner’s 1993 performance remains one of the great Grand Final moments. This collaboration is a perfect way for Rugby League to pay tribute to Tina and everything she did for our game, and it will be a special moment for fans amongst the outstanding entertainment on offer on Grand Final day,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.
Producers Paul Dainty AO/TEG Dainty and Stage Entertainment said they were “honoured that our production of TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL will headline the pre-game show at the NRL Grand Final, commemorating Tina Turner’s performance 30 years ago.”
“Our cast and crew have worked tirelessly to deliver a performance that will be remembered for years to come,” Dainty said.
The entertainment line-up on Grand Final day also includes two performances from Australian rock band, King Stingray. The five-piece from the Northern Territory, who perform in both English and Yolŋu Matha languages, will deliver the NRLW Grand Final pre-game show before returning to the stage in the build-up to the NRL Grand Final.
Turner passed away peacefully at her home in Switzerland on Wednesday, May 24 at the age of 83. Her death was officially confirmed through a statement shared on her Instagram account.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner,” the statement read.
“With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow.
“Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly.”
In addition to her tribute at the upcoming NRL final, fans and fellow musicians offered their heartfelt tributes to the legendary singer following her death while celebrating her immeasurable impact on the world of music.
Turner’s incredible talent and unwavering determination to her craft saw her quickly achieve international stardom, leaving an enduring mark on the world of music and securing her place as the queen of rock and roll.
Her path to fame began when she joined Ike Turner’s band as a backup singer. It wasn’t long before her incredible vocal abilities and undeniable stage presence caught the attention of both audiences and the music industry. The duo quickly rose to fame as Ike & Tina Turner, captivating crowds with their electrifying performances that blended rock, soul, and rhythm and blues.
Over time, Turner’s talent demanded recognition in its own right, and her solo career soared to amazing heights. With a signature mix of rock, soul, and blues, she amazed fans worldwide. Hits such as What’s Love Got to Do with It, Private Dancer, and Simply the Best showcased her commanding voice, earning her countless accolades, including numerous Grammy Awards and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
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