Tina - A Tropical Love Story

Date

Wed 7 May

Venue

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall
Melbourne Recital Centre
31 Sturt Street, Southbank VIC 3006

Step into a vibrant world, where the sultry heat of the tropics meets the electrifying energy of a cultural icon in a heartfelt tribute to the indomitable spirit of Tina Turner.
Comedy
Dance
Drag
Music
Theatre

Image by Jamie James

It’s 1993, in a sweltering Darwin amphitheatre in the NORTHERN TERRITORY. A young First Nations boy finds himself swept away by the legendary Tina Turner - AN ENCOUNTER THAT would spark a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

Blending storytelling, cabaret and dazzling drag, 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.

Tina – A Tropical Love Story is written, performed and directed by Ben Graetz with special performances from guest artists from the drag, First Nations and queer performance scene.

Performance Details

Venue

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall

Melbourne Recital Centre

31 Sturt Street, Southbank VIC 3006


Dates & Times

Wed 7 May 8pm 60 mins, no interval


Tickets

Blaktix $20 General $45 YIRRAMBOI Fan $65 TICKETING & ACCESSIBILITY ENQUIRIES Venue Phone: (03) 9929 9600 Venue Email: boxoffice@melbournerecital.com.au

Photography

Image Jamie James

Image by Joseph Mayers

Image by Joseph Mayers

Image by Joseph Mayers

Image by Joseph Mayers

Image by Joseph Mayers

,

Private Dancer

Writer, Director & Performer

Ben Graetz (he/him) aka Miss Ellaneous (Miss Tina) (she/her), Malak Malak/ Kungarakan/Muran Clan (Iwaidja)/Torres Strait Islands (Badu Island)


Images

Jamie James, Joseph Mayers


Ben Graetz aka Miss Ellaneous Ben Graetz aka Miss Ellaneous (Miss Tina) is a powerhouse in Australia’s creative sector, with over 26 years of experience. Raised in Darwin with deep cultural ties to Malak Malak, Kungarakan, Muran Clan, and Badu Island, Ben has shaped the arts sector nationally and internationally. He is the founder of BRG Productions and co-director of Party Passport, known for its celebration of diversity and inclusion. As creative director of major events like Sydney WorldPride 2023 and the Garrmalang Festival, Ben’s influence extends across communities, showcasing First Nations talent, LGBTQIA+SB advocacy and cultural innovation.

The audience will be seated throughout the performance.

  • Auslan Interpreted

    Auslan Interpreted

  • Accessible Bathroom

  • Assistance Animals Welcome

  • Wheelchair Accessible

    Wheelchair Accessible

  • Hearing Loop

    Hearing Loop

Presented by YIRRAMBOI and Melbourne Recital Centre, with BRG Productions.


This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

Recommended for ages 15 and over, adult themes, strobe and haze.

Partners