-By Kim Parnell-

South African-born Caroline Borale has been playing Tina Turner since 2017 when the show first opened in Durban, South Africa. Originally from Johannesburg, Durban is about a seven-hour drive from her hometown. Coming from a musically rich family, with her parents and sisters deeply involved in music, Caroline was surrounded by melodies throughout her childhood.

Her dad was forever playing his LPs of jazz or gospel or whatever interested him at that particular time and introduced her to Tina’s powerful voice when she was about nine or ten. He brought home “The Soul of Ike and Tina Turner,” and as he played it, Caroline was captivated by Tina’s unique voice.

Caroline’s early exposure to Tina Turner wasn’t just about the music; it was about the story behind the voice. Years later she would understand that voice. Tina’s strength and resilience resonated deeply with Caroline, who had witnessed violence and abuse. Growing up, she saw things that children shouldn’t see, but these experiences made her connection with Tina’s story even stronger. Caroline saw in Tina a person who overcame adversity, embodying a classic example of what life can be and should be and what it ultimately was for her.

Preparing for the role of Tina was an intense experience for the performer. With over twenty years in the profession, she wasn’t going to merely sing Tina’s songs into a microphone. To truly honour the artist, Caroline immersed herself in a year-long study of her subject. She watched all of Tina’s concerts, movies, and interviews, meticulously studying her mannerisms, speech patterns, and physical movements. This dedication continues to this day, as Caroline revisits the material regularly, discovering new nuances to incorporate into her performances.

“I believe to be a true tribute artist is to delve into that person in their entirety and pay your respects to exactly who they are,” says Caroline whose natural energy and dynamism shine through on stage, embodying Tina’s powerful presence.

 Before each show, she follows a ritual to centre herself. She reconnects with Tina’s music, spends quiet time focusing on her thoughts, and engages in a physical warm-up to prepare her body for the demanding performance. A moment of prayer with her team ensures she steps onto the stage with a smile, ready to deliver an electrifying show.

Choosing a favourite Tina Turner song is challenging for Caroline, as it depends on her mood and experiences. Currently, “Proud Mary” and “Nutbush City Limits” are her favourites, especially during the Australian tour, where the audience’s enthusiasm adds a unique vibrancy to the performances. Australians have a special connection with “Nutbush,” making it a particularly enjoyable song for Caroline to perform.

Tina’s story has deeply influenced Caroline’s life and values. While Caroline hasn’t adopted Buddhism, she embraces many of its principles, such as kindness, treating people right, and paying it forward. These values, combined with Tina’s example of overcoming adversity, shape Caroline’s approach to life and her commitment to women’s empowerment. Supporting women-based and women-owned initiatives is a significant aspect of Caroline’s mission, inspired by Tina’s legacy.

About Tina’s music, Caroline says, “I’m not sure if it’s mastering the art of language that supersedes time itself, but I think that’s what she has done. You would play her songs in the 60s and today in 2024 they are just as relevant.

“There are lots of other songs that have come and gone, songs that just don’t stay with us. Tina’s message was so powerful that it bled and read into her songs and that will always be the case.

“There are some artists that are just divinely anointed like that, and I think she is just one of them.”

The highlight of Caroline’s career as a Tina Turner tribute artist is seeing the joy and emotional connection in her audience. Seeing smiles and knowing she has touched someone’s life, whether in a small or significant way, is the most rewarding aspect of her work. Audience reactions and gratitude affirm that she is doing something right, making each performance meaningful and fulfilling.

Caroline feels privileged to play a role that goes beyond music, touching on life, resilience and empowerment. She is grateful for the opportunity to bring Tina Turner’s story to audiences worldwide, feeling honoured that she was chosen to carry this legacy forward. For Caroline, this role is the ultimate legacy she hopes to leave behind, showcasing her talent and touching lives through Tina’s timeless story and music.

Caroline’s message to the audience is one of hope and unity. She believes that despite life’s challenges, everything will be okay, and music plays a crucial role in bringing people together and uplifting spirits. By sharing moments of joy and connection through music, Caroline aims to make people happy and leave them with positive memories.

The show’s costumes are dazzling, featuring replicas of Tina Turner’s iconic outfits. These shimmering, brightly coloured costumes, ensure an immersive experience that stays true to Tina’s legacy.

Caroline encourages everyone to come to the show, not just for nostalgia but for the uplifting experience it offers. The high-energy, fast-paced production caters to audiences of all ages, from those who saw Tina live to younger fans discovering her music. Caroline promises that attending the show will leave you feeling good, uplifted, and full of joy, celebrating Tina Turner’s enduring legacy and the power of music to bring people together.

TINA The Ultimate Tribute to the Queen of Rock‘n’Roll

August 12

Brolga Theatre & Convention Centre, Maryborough

 Tickets: www.brolgatheatre.org