Darilyn Burtley – TINA, The Tina Turner Musical

What is your current role?

I’m playing Tina Turner in TINA – The Tina Turner Musical.

What sparked your interest in the arts?

My mother trained me from a young age.

Who are the women in the arts that have influenced you the most?

Tina Turner, Beyoncé, Audra McDonald, Natalie Portman, Hayley Williams, Whitney Houston, Renee Fleming, and Misha Greene.

What advice would you give to young women entering the arts?

Get educated in the business side of the industry. Consider either double majoring or taking performance classes privately while majoring in something like entertainment, law, or arts administration. Treat yourself like your own small business: know your rights and know your worth.

Is there a costume or object that holds special meaning for you?

We have not quite gotten into props and costumes yet, but I am most excited to wear the dress in “Disco Inferno.”