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BrumHour saw The Bodyguard at the invite of The Alexandra.
By Dave Massey
The Bodyguard at The Alexandra: Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐A great large-scale musical.
Directed by Thea Sharrock, book by Alexander Dinelaris, screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan
Rachel Marron is a globally famous artist with an extensive catalogue of music, nominated for an Oscar for a film role, but lurking around is a stalker prepared to do anything to destroy her and her world. High-profile bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is called in to resolve this dangerous situation.
Essentially an updated version of the Whitney Houston film, The Bodyguard features strong music, bold choreography, and big dramatic moments. Sidonie Smith is great as Rachel, but more likable than the film version. Here, she is a person who wants to produce her craft for her audience. Adam Garcia’s Frank Farmer is assured and his destruction of Dolly Parton’s I Will Always Love You has to be seen.
The sets are huge, dramatic lighting, curtains that sweep right from the floor to the rafters, to the intimate feel of Frank’s hideout. This is a big production that will resonate with many people. The music stands out, and Sasha Monique’s vocals as Nicki are also excellent.
This is the first press night of the 2025/26 tour which visits Germany, Switzerland and Ireland as well as around the UK. The only jarring thing for me is the inclusion of Whitney Houston songs which aren’t from the film and particularly Million Dollar Bill from 2012. A great song in its own right, but out of place here.
I’ll always love The Bodyguard, which is at The Alexandra until 27th September 2025. Book tickets here: atgtickets.com/shows/the-bodyguard/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham.
