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Adam Garcia as Frank Farmer and Sidonie Smith as Rachel Marron. Pictures: Paul Coltas The Bodyguard - The Musical The Alexandra Theatre **** Premiering in 2012, the stage musical musical version of the 1992 blockbuster movie The Bodyguard has proved a popular ticket on the UK touring circuit ever since. Given its movie style glamour and high-octane playlist, it’s easy to see why. The story, sometimes a little left behind and underdeveloped between the succession of Whitney Houston numbers, follows a fictional singer, Rachel Marron (Sidonie Smith) at the height of her popularity. Fame clearly brings risks, and bodyguard Frank Farmer (Adam Garcia) is hired to protect Rachel. It’s a timely appointment as out in the shadows lurks a dangerous stalker (James-Lee Harris) who is intent on extinguishing Rachel’s flame for good. After initial doubt, Rachel warms to Frank’s appointment and before long the relationship becomes much more than just professional. It’s a speedy courtship which could have been explored a little fuller, but it brings tenderness to the proceedings and even humour. Frank’s underwhelming attempt at singing at a karaoke club is nicely played and marks the beginning of the spark between him and Rachel.
Sidonie Smith in full voice as Rachel More tender moments are provided with the introduction of Rachel’s young son. Fletcher (Mason Dyett). Fletcher’s wide-eyed innocence is a nice contrast to the cutthroat showbiz circuit and the developing relationship between him and Frank is played out with charm. Whilst the story has its moments, it’s the set routines and emotional renditions of big songs that power the show. The concert vibe is perfectly recreated onstage with ramped up orchestrations, state of the art lighting and on point choreography combining to bring the party very much to the room. Up tempo floor fillers like Queen of The Night and I’m Every Woman are mixed with the more plaintiff numbers like One Moment in Time and Saving All My Love that really serve to feature and platform Smith’s vocal power. Whilst the songs are all from the Whitney Houston songbook, this is no attempt to mimic the iconic singer. Smith has her style, both physically and vocally which puts her own a slant on a set of instantly recognisable songs. It’s a respectful nod to the great lady without being a carbon copy. High end audio visuals are used well, especially in the sinister build-up of the stalker, played with ice cold menace by James-Lee Harris. Huge back projections also serve to give a ‘filmic’ appearance at times – reminiscent of the screens used at stadium gigs. Sidonie Smith pulsates as Rachel Marron, combining tenderness when required with sheer power on the ‘big’ songs. And yes, she hits THAT key change note on I will Always Love You with effortless ease. Credit too to the cast/dressers who get her into her frocks quicker than a tyre change at Silverstone. Adam Garcia is calm and considered as bodyguard Frank Farmer, whilst Sasha Monique gives Rachel’s sister, Nicki a quiet dignity ...as well as scene stealing vocals. The story is fine - there’s even a baddie to boo at. But this is all about the music and that’s what you take away with you as the final bars of I Wanna Dance with Somebody accompany the final curtain. Slick, sexy and superbly staged. Grab a ticket and join the party. Tom Roberts 23-09-25 |
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