The Bodyguard at The Regent – Review
Fans of chick flicks and power ballads get ready for The Bodyguard at the Regent theatre in Hanley.
Based on the Warner Bros film from the 90s, and directed by Thea Sharrock this is a show which is destined to be a seat filler – Review by Mel Osborne
The Bodyguard is a story about love and protection, at all costs. Frank Farmer
(Adam Garcia) is an ex secret service turned Bodyguard who is called upon to act as a bodyguard for rising star Rachel Marron (Sidonie Smith) who’s safety is at risk.
Both of them want to be in charge but neither predict they fall in love. This is both a romance and thriller all rolled into one- something for everyone.
(Images supplied by The Regent. Credit Paul Coltas.)
Fans of the film or even those who didn’t like it may wonder how it transfers on to
stage.
Casting has reflected the original cast members and the musical acts as a tribute to late icon Whitney Huston who starred in the original film.
This rendition is fresh and modern, as if the original script was given a boost of power and it really works.
Sidonie as Rachel is spell bounding as she belts power ballads such as ‘I want to
dance with somebody’ and ‘Saving all my love for you.’
Not forgetting the ultimate showstopper; “I will always love you .”
Sidonie doesn’t just sing the songs but acts them resulting in a convincing portrayal of the upcoming star.
Adam Garcia gives a sterling performance as Frank and is a perfect very caring protector while Cale Cole as Fletcher is a joy to watch.
At only 10 years of age his confidence and stage presence was a pleasure to see.
Sasha Monique as Nicki Maron gave a heart wrenching performance as Rachel’s sister whilst Matt Milburn as Sy Spector provided some lighter comic relief.
With glitzy staging, fast paced drama and a live band the tour brings the West end
experience to Stoke with true class.
If you weren’t as impressed by the film you will be pleasantly surprised by the musical as its format is engaging, slick and faultless.
The beauty of turning films into musicals is that the magic can be kept alive and relevant and there is a stunning use of imagery which is used to good effect, breathtaking projections and heart pounding scenes.
The Bodyguard is a dazzling, triumph of a show, that should be on every musical
theatre fan’s bucket list. It leaves you on the edge of your seat from the moment it
starts right to the end. Expect passion, heartbreak and spell bounding performances.
5 stars
The Bodyguard is at The Regent until Saturday 8 November. For more information please visit The Regent HERE
