Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Friday 30 May 2025, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide, SA
Presented by Face To Face Touring, Tina Arena’s Don’t Ask Again Tour made its grand finale at Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre on Friday, May 30, 2025, and what a night it was! Celebrating the 30th anniversary of her iconic album Don’t Ask, Tina delivered an unforgettable performance that left the audience spellbound and appreciative.
Dylan Wright Shines Bright Opening for Tina Arena in Adelaide
On the final night of Tina Arena’s Don’t Ask Again Tour at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Adelaide, the audience was treated to a cool surprise – Australian Idol 2024 winner Dylan Wright stepped in as the opening act, and he didn’t just warm up the crowd… he owned the stage.
Dylan, guitar in hand and radiating genuine charm, took to the stage with a quiet confidence that instantly won over the room. Still riding high on the momentum of his Idol victory, this was a chance for Adelaide fans to see the young artist up close – and he didn’t disappoint.
Opening with his original song the Proclaimers ‘I’m Gonna Be’, Dylan’s warm, slightly raspy vocals immediately caught everyone’s attention. The theatre hushed, leaning in as he effortlessly blended pop, folk, and singer-songwriter vibes into an intimate and modern sound.
With a few sensationally delivered covers, Marc Cohn’s ‘Walking In Memphis’ and the set closing number, Crowded House’s ‘Better Be Home Soon’, it was his originals that really peaked my interest. ‘Paper Heart’ and ‘Mess Of A Man’ really showcase this guys insane soaring vocal abilities. The rest of the audience by their standing ovation and appreciative cheers agreed.
Regaling stories of listening to ‘Don’t Ask’ as a child with his mother, Dylan spoke highly and admiringly of the artist he was opening for. Wishing us (the audience) well and good thoughts, Dylan left the stage humbly. It is most obvious this guy has incredible talent but is also a very, very good human with upmost respect. Bravo sir.
A Triumphant Return to Adelaide
The atmosphere inside Her Majesty’s Theatre was a buzz, we knew what we wanted (and were about) to hear. She sings like a freakin’ angel, has a plethora of hits and we were there for it.
As fans gathered to witness Tina’s return to the stage, opening with ‘Heaven Help My Heart’, she immediately captivated the audience with her powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The setlist was a well-curated journey through her illustrious career, featuring hits like ‘Chains’, ‘Wasn’t It Good’, and ‘Sorrento Moon (I Remember)’. Each song was met with enthusiastic applause, and many in the audience could be seen singing along, lost in nostalgia.
The entire track list of ‘Don’t Ask’ was played (while not in album order), and us, the crowd, sung along knowing all the songs like old friends. Other tracks made an appearance from other albums, Foreigner’s ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ (In Deep, 1997) as was the biggie ‘Burn’. ‘Symphony Of Life’ (Just Me album, 2001) and from the 2015 album Eleven, ‘Unravel Me’. We got a great selection of a long and outstanding career.
Tina has grace, it permeates from her. She drops the ‘f’ bomb, she says what she wants and calls it like it is. She loves. She shares her frustration. She shows her sadness and her vulnerability. She dances in pure joy. She is exactly her pure self, what you see is what you get. And damn it, she’s worked hard for that.
Visual Elegance and Stage Presence
Tina’s stage presence was mesmerising. Dressed in a stunning black drapey ensemble that paid homage to her Italian heritage, she moved with grace and confidence, commanding the stage with every step. The lighting design complemented her performance beautifully, with warm hues and dynamic effects that enhanced the emotional depth of each song.
The Band
Of course, no great concert is complete without a stellar band – and Tina Arena’s Don’t Ask Again Tour featured one of the finest ensembles on the road this year.
Each of the five musicians on stage were a master of their craft, delivering rich, textured soundscapes that elevated Tina’s iconic vocals to even greater heights. The rhythm section was tight and dynamic, keeping the energy pulsing throughout the night, while the lush keyboard layers added emotional depth to ballads like Wasn’t It Good. The lead guitarist impressed with tasteful solos that never overpowered, always serving the song first.
And let’s not forget the two female backing vocalists, whose harmonies wrapped around Tina’s voice with precision and warmth.
This group of seven talents are the ‘cream’ and they didn’t just play the hits – they breathed new life into them, making even the most familiar tracks feel fresh and exhilarating. Stunning.
The Duet
Adding to the evening’s magic, Tina welcomed back Australian Idol 2024 winner Dylan Wright to the stage for a duet of ‘Stop Dragging My Heart Around’. Their voices blended seamlessly, creating a memorable moment that highlighted the bridging of musical generations. Unbuttoning his shirt and revealing a ‘Tina’ merch t-shirt (much to the laughter of Arena), it was another nod in acknowledging the fact he was on stage with not only his mother’s but his Australian singing hero.
A Heartfelt Connection
Throughout the concert, Tina engaged with the audience, sharing personal anecdotes and expressing genuine gratitude for their unwavering support over the years. Her sincerity resonated deeply, fostering a sense of intimacy that made the large theatre feel like a cozy gathering among friends. We lapped it up.
A Triumphant Finale
As the evening (and tour) drew to a close, Arena thanked the entire ‘family’ of the tour and it was heart-felt. The respect she has for them is obvious and but she reiterated it and it was real. Tina then, delivered a powerful rendition of ‘Chains’, the one we were ALL waiting for, bringing the audience to their feet in a standing ovation. The applause was thunderous, a testament to her enduring talent and the profound impact of her music. George Michael’s ‘Faith’ commenced through the system and Tina danced playfully and slowly left the stage with band in tow.
Tina Arena’s Don’t Ask Again Tour in Adelaide was exceptional, a true show – it was a celebration of a remarkable career and a heartfelt thank-you to the fans who have supported her journey. Her Majesty’s Theatre provided the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary evening, leaving all in attendance with cherished memories of a truly iconic performance.
Congratulations Tina , you are sold gold.
Much respect, Markus x
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