Simply The Best: A Q&A With Jayna Elise, Star of TINA – The Tina Turner Musical

Broadway’s electrifying hit TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is set to take center stage this March, bringing the powerhouse story of the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll to life. Leading the charge is the phenomenal Jayna Elise, whose journey to the spotlight includes being a finalist on American Idol and America’s Got Talent, as well as sharing the stage with music legends like Queen Latifah and Boyz II Men’s Wanya Morris.

With February marking Black History Month, there’s no better time to celebrate the legacy of Tina Turner—a trailblazer who broke barriers, redefined music, and inspired generations. In this exclusive Q&A, Jayna shares her thoughts on stepping into Tina’s legendary shoes, the power of storytelling through music, and what audiences can expect from this unforgettable show. —Noa Nichol

What does it mean to you to take on the role of Tina Turner, a musical icon and trailblazer, especially as we approach the end of Black History Month?

To take on this role, especially during Black History Month, is an absolute honor. Not only was Tina a worldwide musical icon, she was especially inspirational to young black women like me. Without her, there wouldn’t be any of the amazing performers we know and love today. She really paved the way. 

How did your experiences on American Idol and America’s Got Talent shape your journey as a performer and prepare you for the Broadway stage?

My experiences on Idol and AGT shaped my journey in a lot of ways. One of them being, they provided me the opportunity to build vocal endurance and resilience, which in a show like this, is so important.

Tina Turner’s story is one of resilience and empowerment. How do you connect with her journey, and how do you channel that into your performance

The super inspiring thing about Tina’s story is that everyone can relate to the idea of being at a low moment in their life and then above all odds somehow making it out of that. That’s exactly what Tina did and so I feel like I relate to her in that regard; of being able to just brush myself off and pick myself up and do what needs to be done. And hopefully, like Tina, it will pay off.

What has been the most challenging and rewarding part of embodying Tina Turner, both as a performer and as a person?

I think the most rewarding thing about being able to take on this role has been being able to see the effect Tina’s story and music has on people. Their connection to her is incomparable really and it’s one of the reasons why I think this musical has been so successful. For that reason, it has also given me a new found confidence in my OWN performing ability and the impact that I may be able to have on people. 

You’ve shared the stage with some legendary performers. How have those experiences influenced your artistry and approach to this iconic role?

Yes, I have been extremely blessed to share the stage with some absolutely iconic people. However, one situation comes to mind specifically. Last year, I was able to sing with Seal on American Idol and at the very last moment he calls me into his trailer, he says, “You know what? We’re going to change the blocking of our performance and we’re not going to tell anyone.” He then said, “Sometimes you need to have something just for yourself. Keep something for you that no one else knows about.” So, at times, when I’m performing for this role, I’ll change my inflection on a note or change a run or riff and I do it just for myself. 

What do you hope audiences take away from TINA? Are there particular moments in the show that you find especially powerful or moving?

As I said before, I think the biggest thing audiences take away from Tina is just how inspiring of a woman she was. A lot of people come and they have different expectations about her story or her life. I feel like this musical really goes into the depths of what she went through. Even things that maybe weren’t shown in the movie. Everyone always remarks on how strong she was and always leaves feeling empowered.

Tina Turner broke barriers in the music industry. How do you think her story resonates with audiences today, especially in the context of Black History Month?

Tina Turner was so iconic that her story resonates with many people of all different races and backgrounds all over the world. But specifically for the African American community, especially women and young girls, I think the way she overcame a lot of struggles against racism and sexism really sticks and provides such an encouraging message. 

How do you prepare, physically and emotionally, to deliver such an electrifying performance night after night?

Telling Tina’s story night after night is definitely not something I take lightly so, I first prepare by acknowledging how grateful I am to be given this opportunity. I have also changed my entire lifestyle— what I eat, my gym routine, and my vocal routine are all very different from what they used to be. Everything I do now is kind of in service of this show.

What advice would you give to aspiring performers who look up to you and Tina Turner as inspirations?

Work hard, play hard. But in the sense that you have to find the joy in your work so you have something to look forward to everyday. So when you’re working hard, you’re also enjoying it. 

What’s next for you after TINA? Are there any other dream roles or projects you’d love to pursue in the future?

Hopefully Broadway! I would love to star in Hell’s Kitchen or even Wicked as Elphaba.

Final, tough questions: fave Tina Turner look, and fave Tina Turner song?

All the costumes and songs in the musical are so amazing; however, River Deep Mountain High and the Proud Mary dress from Act One are some of my favorites.