The sultry heat of the tropics meets the electrifying energy of a cultural icon.
18–20
BEN GRAETZ
The sultry heat of the tropics meets the electrifying energy of a cultural icon.
In 1993, in the sweltering Darwin Amphitheatre, a young First Nations boy found himself swept away by the legendary Tina Turner. That life-changing evening would spark a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Blending storytelling, cabaret, and drag, TINA — A Tropical Love Story is a heartfelt tribute to the indomitable spirit of the rock icon. Enter the enchanting realm of First Nations drag performer Miss
Ellaneous (AKA Ben Graetz), who shares deeply personal tales of growing up in Darwin and the profound impact of the Queen of rock ‘n’ roll.
This dazzling celebration of Darwin, drag, and Tina Turner is written, performed, and directed by Graetz with special performances from the drag, First Nations, and queer performance scene.
From the Director
TINA — A Tropical Love Story was born from a moment that never left me — a balmy Darwin night in 1993, standing in the open air of the Darwin Amphitheatre, transfixed by the one and only Tina Turner.
As a young, queer, First Nations boy, something shifted in me that night. It wasn’t just the music — it was her power, her presence, and the unapologetic way she claimed space. That moment became a touchstone in my life.
This show is a love letter to Tina Turner and to that experience. But it’s also bigger than that — it’s about finding your voice, your power, and your place in the world. It’s about growing up Blak and fabulous in a small town, navigating identity, family, and queerness.
Through storytelling, music, drag, and memory, TINA invites the audience to step into a world where culture and queerness collide, where resilience dances with vulnerability, and where Tina’s spirit becomes a guiding light.
At its heart, this work is a celebration of Tina Turner, of transformation, and the healing power of performance. It’s a tribute to community, chosen family, and the cultural icons who help us survive and thrive.
As both a personal journey and a universal story of becoming, TINA — A Tropical Love Story is for anyone who has ever stood alone, dreaming of something much bigger, and found their own courage.
Creator/Writer
Director
Choreographer
Creatives Cast
(in order of appearance)
Miss
Tinette Dancer
Tinette Dancer
Dancer
Singer
Singer
BRG PRODUCTIONS is a 100% Blak-owned company creating powerful, inclusive arts experiences that celebrate First Nations, LGBTQIA+SB stories with impact.
Brisbane Festival Team Company
Artistic
Marketing
Chief
Technical
Acknowledging the Brisbane Festival project team and the Brisbane Powerhouse staff and crew who’ve contributed to the making and delivery of this work as part of the 2025 festival.