SKIBBEREEN Geriatric Society is hosting a fundraiser in May that sees the return of acclaimed Tina Turner tribute performer Rebecca O’Connor.

Rebecca is widely lauded as the world’s number one Tina performer. With a powerhouse voice and a commanding stage presence, her show has been personally endorsed by the late Tina Turner herself.

But there’s more to this story. The man behind the production is none other than Dennis Dunstan, former manager of Fleetwood Mac and personal manager of Mick Fleetwood.

After decades of working with rock legends, Dennis saw something exceptional in Cork native Rebecca, a performer who doesn’t just imitate Tina, but channels her essence in a way that leaves audiences breathless.

Dennis has spent over a decade elevating Rebecca’s career, bringing her from early-stage success to sold-out international tours across Ireland, Africa, Barbados, Australia and Europe. Now, in 2026, he’s bringing her back to Ireland and Skibbereen for another unforgettable run.

This show rocks from start to finish with iconic hits from Nutbush City Limits, to Proud Mary, River Deep, Private Dancer, When the Heartache Is Over, Better Be Good To Me, and of course her anthem, Simply the Best plus many more songs in two sets.

When she performed in Skibbereen in June 2025, Rebecca – who was first introduced to Tina Turner’s music by her parents as a young girl - received a standing ovation after an unforgettable performance.

‘When I first heard Tina it was like a volcano went off inside me,’ said Rebecca. ‘I knew then this amazing woman would influence me forever.’ Rebecca joined her first band at 17 and incorporated Tina’s songs into the band’s
set list.

When she won a local Karaoke competition singing a Tina Turner song, her mother entered her into the hit TV show, European Stars In Their Eyes Competition and she went on to take out the title in front of over 33 million viewers.

Rebecca may look and sound like Tina Turner on stage, but she is adamant that: ‘There is only one Tina Turner, she is absolutely amazing and I admire and respect her so much and I hope that I can bring her power, energy and magic to each and every show I perform.

‘To be personally endorsed by her was an absolute honour and something I will always
cherish.’

The fundraiser is in aid of Skibbereen Geriatric Society which is embarking on an ambitious project in 2026. The society in association with Cork County Council and the Department of Housing is building eight one-bed units on a site at Mardyke Street, Skibbereen which is owned by Cork County Council.

The society currently has 33 flatlets in four locations around Skibbereen town, and it also provides a meals-on-wheels service and operates its luncheon club on Tuesdays and Fridays from Cara House.

The construction of the eight new flatlets will be grant-aided up to 95% of the cost and the Geriatric Society will be required to provide a sum of approximately €150,000.

With this in mind, treasurer Adrian Healy, has organised the fundraising event in the West Cork Hotel, Skibbereen, on Friday May 15th. Tickets are on sale now from the hotel (028) 21277, Rita Dwyer Inspire Design & Print, Cara House (028) 22269 or from any member of Skibbereen Geriatric Society.