Alumna Hits the Road in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical Tour

BFA Musical Theatre alumna (’24) Moriah Baskett is living her dream, traveling the country with the national tour of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. Performing as Ikette 2, she’s bringing high energy and heart to the stage.

Since joining the tour, she has performed in cities across the United States, including Lincoln, Nebraska; Boston, Massachusetts; and Oxford, Mississippi, with many more to come. “I’m definitely looking forward to our shows in my home state of Georgia,” she said. “We have a night in Savannah, and another in Evans. I’m also excited to travel to Canada and Mexico, and to perform at the Pantages Theatre in California at the end of the tour.”

Life on tour is anything but predictable. “Every day looks different on the road,” she shared. “Some mornings start as early as 6:00 am for bus call and travel up to eight hours straight into a show. Other days, I get to sleep in, find a cafe for breakfasts, and hit the gym before heading to the theatre. It all depends!”

Her rigorous schedule is powered by the foundation she built at Montclair State. “My Musical Theatre training at Montclair State University definitely set me up for success as a performer,” she said. “I went into callbacks confident and learned the show quickly. Montclair instilled a focus and drive in me that allowed me to stand firmly in my skills and who I am as a performer, thriving in so many different environments.”

For her, the most profound part of this experience goes far beyond the stage lights. “The most meaningful part of this tour is telling Tina’s story alongside so many other beautiful black women,” she said. “Tina’s story is one of resilience, power, and triumph, and it’s an honor to share her life and accomplishments with audiences across the country. Being surrounded by my people in this way is rare, and it means so much to be part of the Tina Broadway legacy.”

As she continues to bring Tina Turner’s story to audiences nationwide, she carries lessons from Montclair State, and some advice for those following in her footsteps.

“My biggest piece of advice for performers is to prioritize yourself in every situation. Your physical and mental health and safety are more important than any show or contract. GO RED HAWKS!”

–Moriah Baskett