Melt Festival is an annual open access festival of Queer art and culture premiering in Brisbane from 23 October to 10 November 2024 and featuring over 220 performances and events. One of those performances is TINA – A Tropical Love Story written, performed, and directed by Ben Graetz, with choreography by Leanne Scott-Toms, and special performances by Garret Lyon, Roymata Holmes, Karibu Collective and other special guest artists.
Step into a vibrant world, where the sultry heat of the tropics meets the electrifying energy of a cultural icon.
In 1988, amidst the sweltering atmosphere of the Darwin Amphitheatre, a young First Nations boy found himself swept away by the legendary Tina Turner’s mesmerising performance. Little did he know that fateful night would ignite a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Read on to learn more about the show and artist Ben Graetz
How would you describe your show to someone who knows very little about it?
It’s a captivating 60-minute show that combines storytelling, drag, and live performances to celebrate the life of the extraordinary Tina Turner.
What sets TINA – A Tropical Love Story apart from other shows appearing at the Festival, and why should audiences see it?
It’s a unique type of cabaret/variety show that celebrates Tina Turner—her legacy, music, and life—while also showcasing some of Australia’s finest Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Pasifika queer performers. This show is for anyone who loves drag,
What about your performance are you most proud of?
Being able to share my love of Tina with my audience and embody and impersonate her for some of her biggest hits!
Who or what was the inspiration for your becoming an entertainer? OR Who has been your biggest inspirations?
Definitely Tina Turner! but also I am inspired by all the beautiful matriarchs in my family. My drag is also inspired by a fabulous Maori drag queen called Tess Tickle.
How long was the process from idea to writing to stage? Any challenges along the way?
I suppose in a way I have been working on this since seeing Tina live in Darwin when I was 16 years of age in 1993. That concert has inspired my performance style, allowed me to have the confidence I do and informed my drag style. But this particular show has been in creation since the start of this year.
Some of the challenges include finding guest artists to join the show in each new location and adjusting the show slightly to make it more relevant to local audiences. Additionally, maintaining my performance and energy levels at the same high intensity as hers!
What attracts you to this type of performance?
I love being able to showcase other profession queer BIPOC artists but allow audiences to relive the songs and music of such an extraordinary artist, singer and human being.
How would you describe the art of drag?
Very diverse! These days, there are so many different styles of drag, and thanks to RuPaul’s Drag Race, it has become very accessible and available to the wider community. I love that drag can still be political, with many drag artists at the forefront of change, ensuring that our LGBTSBQIA+ voices are seen and heard.
What are three things that would surprise people to learn about you?
I have a daughter
I hate glitter
I have seen TINA the musical in 3 different countries!
What’s next for you after Melt Festival?
Taking some time off and going to visit my husband’s family in Wales for Christmas and also working towards the next destination for Tina – A tropical love story!
Tina – A Tropical Love Story is a captivating blend of storytelling and cabaret, and a heartfelt tribute to the indomitable spirit of Tina Turner. Enter the enchanting realm of Miss Ellaneous, First Nations Drag performer (AKA Ben Graetz), as he shares his deeply personal tales of growing up in Darwin and the profound impact Tina had on his life.
This spectacular production intertwines Ben’s narrative with dazzling drag performances, inviting local artists to share their own experiences of how Tina’s music and legacy have shaped their lives. From tales of resilience to moments of empowerment, Tina – A Tropical Love Story embraces the transformative power of music and love and celebrates hope, humanity and community.
October 25 – 26
