By Jeanni Ritchie
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the electrifying energy of Tina Turner live on stage, Proud Tina delivers — and then some.
My parents, family friend Sandy, and I joined a packed crowd at Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center for this high-energy tribute, and from the first note, it was clear we were in for a show. A good portion of the audience was my parents’ age, which made it both adorable and slightly surreal to watch them on their feet, rolling — yes, rolling on the river — like teenagers.
Starring South African–born Caroline Borole, the production captures Tina’s signature sound and spirit with powerful vocals, nonstop movement, and an unmistakable stage presence. A globally touring performer, Borole brings both vocal strength and lived-in appreciation for Tina’s music, which she has studied since childhood. Backed by a full band, brass section, dancers, and backing vocalists, the show moves seamlessly through decades of hits — from What’s Love Got to Do With It to Proud Mary and Nutbush City Limits. Costume changes, choreography, and sheer stamina kept the pace high all night long, and Borole did not disappoint.
While most eyes were locked on Tina, I’ll admit — I kept sneaking glances at the musicians, especially the keyboardist, who added just as much energy to the performance as the front of the stage.
It was one of those shows where you realize how many songs you actually know … and then you realize your dad knows all of them. My personal favorites of the night included the Jumpin’ Jack Flash medley, Addicted to Love, Better Be Good to Me, and We Don’t Need Another Hero — a lineup that kept the energy high and the crowd fully locked in.
From start to finish, the audience was engaged, the energy never dipped, and the entire room felt like one big singalong. It wasn’t just a concert — it was an experience.
Another fabulous production brought to Cenla by the Arts Council of Central Louisiana, and one that had everyone leaving a little more energized than when they walked in.
