Review – The Bodyguard the Musical – Palace Theatre, Manchester 

Currently touring the UK, The Bodyguard tells the story of global phenomenon singer Rachel Marron and her relationship with her new bodyguard: former secret service agent, Frank Farmer. Initially clashing, each expecting to be ‘in-charge’ of the other, their bond grows stronger and stronger as Frank strives to protect Rachel from an unknown stalker. 

With one of the most sudden starts in musical theatre history, the show holds the audience from the second the lights go down. The opening number, Queen of the Night, is so full of high energy, passion and excitement, and allows immersion into the world of Rachel Marron.

What makes the musical so interesting is the contrast of fun, upbeat numbers such as this one, to the gritty, tense and serious theatrical moments throughout the scenes of the show, including the clever use of video with the mysterious and unsettling nature of the stalker. There are certain moments in the show that you forget you are watching a jukebox musical, and not a TV drama! Particular ‘reveals’ through the show have the whole audience audibly gasping or even jumping from the tension.  

There are several stand-out performers in the show, with Adam Garcia proving, yet again, that he looks amazing in a suit and gives a sensational performance. Although he is mainly known for his tap dancing and singing voice, the role of Frank also really highlights his skills as an actor, and I personally develop a deep connection to the character early in the piece.

Another stand-out performer is James-Lee Harris, the dance captain of the tour, who also plays ‘the stalker’. The way he makes an audience full of people so tense, by just standing there with a knife, or doing something simple like putting on a coat, proves his talents. I also absolutely love his involvement in the final number of the show, where he joins the ensemble and gets the chance to sing a line and hug the leading lady, getting to let down the scary stalker character and showcase his fun side with the rest of the cast. Huge mentions should also go to Sidonie Smith and Sasha Monique as Rachel and Nicki Marron, for their incredible vocal work. 

At the end of the show, the creative team offer a chance for any restless audience members, who have made full advantage of the contents of the theatre’s bar, to get up on their feet to dance and sing along. However, when you’re in a theatre, belting the lyrics to I Wanna Dance with Somebody, with complete strangers and the amazingly talented company, there is such a brilliant buzz that waves throughout the auditorium, especially after having watched this great musical. 

Whether you’re a fan of the film, a fan of the music, or simply a musical theatre fan, I would absolutely recommend The Bodyguard! It’s got something for everyone: the music, the suspense, the performances. Together, it all combines to make a brilliant night at the theatre. 

*****     5 stars