As part of the 2026 Broadway season, the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts is bringing the story of pop icon Tina Turner to the Grand Hall with TINA: The Tina Turner Musical. This musical follows the late singer’s uplifting story, set to a soundtrack of her biggest hits, as she becomes the “Queen of Rock and Roll.”
Written by Pulitzer-Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall, this production dives into Turner’s backstory, showcasing the barriers she broke to become the 12-time Grammy Award-winning performer we know today. Featuring songs like “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “Proud Mary” and “Simply the Best,” this musical combines high-energy performances with powerful storytelling.
Since its initial announcement in August, excitement has continued to build. While patrons each have their own favorites among the lineup, Turner’s story has drawn significant enthusiasm.
“It’s fun to watch people’s engagement and excitement about the show,” said Jennifer Clements, executive director of the Martin Center for the Arts. “By far, we’ve seen a huge positive response for all the shows this year.”
The 2026 lineup places TINA among other major touring productions, further cementing the Center’s growing reputation as a regional hub for high-quality Broadway entertainment.
Next year will mark the fifth anniversary of Broadway performances at the venue, a milestone that reflects prolonged university and community investment in the arts. Rather than having to travel to larger cities, audiences within the Tri-Cities area can enjoy the magic of Broadway right at home.
“The Martin Center is a dream of this community and something that has been in the works for almost 40 years,” said Clements. “I hope those who first dreamed of this in the ‘70s and ‘80s can see what their vision has become. Their legacy lives on through what we’re able to bring to this region.”
While the 2026 Broadway season is presented by Bank of Tennessee, whose partnership makes the season possible, Clements extends additional gratitude to Food City for sponsoring TINA.
Be sure to catch TINA: The Tina Turner Musical in the Grand Hall Feb 28 – Mar 1. Discounted student tickets are still available for the Mar 1 performance at 7 P.M. Students can retrieve the tickets from the Carrier Center. General tickets are available through the Martin Center box office and by visiting https://www.etsu.edu/martin-center/.
