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Tuesday 24 October 2023

The Bodyguard the Musical on Tour Review: Starts with a bang and thrills throughout!

The Bodyguard the Musical (Tour)

New Victoria Theatre

Demanding your focus from the very first second, The Bodyguard the Musical has it all! Romance, rivalry, and iconic music for all ages to enjoy.

As per the 1992 movie of the same name, the show tells the story of a famous superstar finding herself to be the unwanted attention of a threatening stalker. As a solution, her team decided to hire a bodyguard to keep her and her family safe. It’s not long before he becomes more invested in his employer than he ever has before.

The leading role of Rachel Marron was made famous by the legendary Whitney Houston. Needless to say, the bar has been set rather high. Multi-platinum recording artist, Emily Williams (also known as ‘Queen of the High C’s) performs the role with phenomenal ease. Her vocal range is staggering! Emily performs Whitney’s iconic songs so beautifully, whilst making sure to add her own touches here and there.

Ayden Callaghan portrays the role of Frank Farmer (the Bodyguard) in a distinguishable manner. His character is stern and unwavering, yet begrudgingly, he shows a softer side as his feelings for Rachel grow. Ayden and Emily have fantastic chemistry together, making their romantic storyline so believable!

Manasseh Mapira, who plays Rachel’s son Fletcher, is an absolute delight to watch. His dancing, vocals and overall charisma have the audience in love! A star in the making…

After a slower-paced first half, things really begin to move in Act Two. The ensemble have a larger part to play, which they do so well; whether it be whilst playing some tone-deaf karaoke singers, or Rachel’s back-up dancers, the energy lifts when they are on the stage.

The set and costume design by Tim Hatley fit the era and flavour of the musical well. It would have been more effective to see the stage space utilised more, but the potential is definitely there!

The use of dramatic sound effects and lighting/projections are what you would expect from a 1992 movie. Whilst the connection to the original movie rings true, some modernisation here may have been beneficial.

Overall, the vocal talent of the cast, the iconic music originally given to us by the one and only Whitney Houston, and the passionate storyline, sells this thrilling musical so well. Highly recommend!

★★★★

Reviewed on Monday 23rd October 2023 by Grace Dickinson

Photo Credit: Paul Coltas

{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}

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Tuesday 7 March 2023

The Bodyguard the Musical (Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review

The Bodyguard the Musical (Tour)

New Wimbledon Theatre

★★★★

Literally opening with a bang, The Bodyguard the Musical takes you on an exciting and exhilarating journey of glorious music and a sweet romance, which will have you engaged throughout.

Based on the 1992 movie of the same name, the show tells the story of a Secret Service bodyguard hired to protect a world famous singer/actress from a threatening stalker. When released the movie became one of the highest grossing of all time and this stage adaptation includes all the memorable moments as well as retaining the original 90s vibes which so many love.

The leading role of Rachel Marron was made famous by Whitney Houston and is a huge role to fill. Taking the cup and stepping into the glitzy boots for this production is Melody Thornton of The Pussycat Dolls. Melody absolutely nails the role and provides some killer vocals throughout, really coming into her own and becoming the star in act two. Thornton performs the iconic songs incredibly well, keeping close enough to the originals that the audience are satisfied but also putting her own small twist on them.

As her love interest and bodyguard Frank Farmer, Ayden Callaghan is an imposing but charming character, easily gaining empathy from the audience through his serious and stern but sensitive portrayal. The chemistry between the pair is pretty strong with some touching moments, especially when the drama really amps up. They're sure to become even more comfortable with each other throughout the tour!

A stand out performance comes from Emily-Mae as Rachel's sister, Nicki. Not only does she portray her unrequited love and upset at constantly being overshadowed extremely well. But her vocal moments are some of the most memorable in the show.

Reneo Kusi-Appauh is equally delightful as Rachel's son Fletcher, especially during act two and the bows when he shows off some killer vocals. Definitely a performer to keep an eye on!

The second act is where things really get going, including the audience getting to see more of the ensemble who are absolutely fantastic. They don't get a massive amount of stage time but when they do, they are outstanding; full of energy they really elevate the show.

The set and costume design by Tim Hatley fit the vibe of the musical well and for a touring production are very effective but at times the space does feel underused and there could certainly be some more wow factor added throughout.

The overly dramatic sound effects and scene transformations are very telenovela/soap opera-esque and the intense thriller aspect doesn't quite transfer, but mostly the show is effective and is a faithful screen to stage adaptation.

The story is well paced and you can't help but revel in the brilliance of Whitney Houston's music from start to finish. The Bodyguard is a well performed show that works well on tour. Run To You-r closest touring venue to see this sparkling production for yourself.

Reviewed on Monday 6th March 2023 by Olivia Mitchell

photo credit: Paul Coltas

{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}

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