Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker and inevitably fall in love in the process.
With a book by Alex Dinelaris based on the screen play by Lawrence Kasdan, The Bodyguard The Musical premièred in the West End in 2012. Set to Whitney’s bangers, the popularity of this show is no surprise, especially with the level of vocal talent on stage.
The staging is remarkable, the elaborate entrance could make you believe you’re at a pop-sensation stadium tour, flames and all. The sheer variety of Tim Hatley’s interchanging sets is exceptional; although watch out for stray strobe lighting blinding you.
The tension created by Marios Nicolaides as The Stalker, aided by some clever videography, generates some eerie moments and jumpscares.
Ayden Callaghan plays reluctant bodyguard Frank Farmer who slowly reveals his vulnerable side, especially during a particularly fun karaoke bit. Samantha Mbolekwa was Rachel Marron for this performance, and her vocals cannot be faulted, carrying each scene with an iconic number and brilliant choreo, while Emily-Mae is great as sidelined sister Nicki with some standout numbers of her own.
However, there’s something generally lacking from the production, making it feel two-dimensional. This could be for a number of reasons; sat on the end of the row affects the acoustics so we didn’t get the full impact of the music, or the audience being hyper-aware of a need to be silent creating an unnaturally still atmosphere.
It could also be that the pace of the production, directed by Thea Sharrock, is simply too fast allowing for little character development. The relationship develops at such a pace that you’re barely invested in it, let alone rooting for the couple.
Nonetheless, a lively curtain call, where the adorable Iesa Miller shines, lets you leave the theatre on a high.
The Bodyguard Musical performs at The Curve, Leicester until 22nd April 2023 before it continues on its UK tour. Purchase tickets here https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/the-bodyguard/
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Katie Reviews 