Performing arts student lands dream Tina Turner West End show role

Imogen Rose Hart, from Bury, has secured a part in Tina, The Tina Turner Musical, which opens at the Aldwych Theatre in London on June 29.

The 20-year-old, who went to St Gabriel’s RC High School, has learnt her trade at the Urdang Academy in the capital city in the last three years - which involved periods of studying during lockdowns - and she is set to graduate soon.

After wowing makers of the musical, Imogen has bagged an ensemble role as a swing performer, which means she must have knowledge about all the female roles in readiness to step in to star in one of them when required.

Imogen Hart

Imogen's mum Kathryn, 54, said: “We are absolutely over the moon.

“We have always had hopes for Imogen and knew she was talented and hoped she would get in the West End, but we did not know she would achieve it so early.

“It is a massive opportunity for her and her career.

“She is the youngest member of the cast.

“Imogen told us by video call and was in tears when she told us.

“She lives with two of her classmates from Pendleton College and they are absolutely thrilled to bits for her, they are very supportive.”

Working in a show covering such a legendary popstar is something Imogen is looking forward to.

Kathryn added: “We love Tina Turner.

“Imogen is quick to learn and obviously must have impressed the producers.”

Imogen’s early success on the stage comes only four years after her older sister Eliza starred on the West End, performing in Thriller Live aged 19.

Imogen's older sister, Eliza Hart

Eliza and Imogen Hart

Describing the pride she and her husband Denzil, 65, feel of having two daughters performing on the West End, Kathryn said it is “unbelievable”.

Kathryn added former vocal coach Jo Bernstein, who worked at Class Act in Prestwich, was instrumental in Imogen’s development aged six.

The family cannot wait to see Imogen on stage and are getting ready to book their tickets.