West End Show: The Bodyguard

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Published on Wednesday, 16 July 2014 19:00

Last Updated on 09 July 2014

Monica Costa

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I love musicals and I love the West End. I feel lucky to be able to see the best musicals in the world. Recently I went to see THE BODYGUARD, based on the smash-hit film which starred Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, which is currently wowing audiences at the Adelphi Theatre in London’s West End. The real treat was three-time Brit nominee and X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke (only 26!) starring as Rachel Marron with Tristan Gemmill (Casualty, London’s Burning) as Rachel’s bodyguard, Frank Farmer.

It goes without saying that Whitney Houston’s songs are the real stars of the show. Alexandra Burke is doing an amazing job in singing the irresistible classics, including One Moment in Time, I Wanna Dance with Somebody and, of course, the legendary I Will Always Love You. I am glad I went now as it will end on 29 August 2014 to go on tour across the UK. I recommend you to go during the Summer holidays if you can.

The story is based on the classic film. Former Secret Service agent, Frank Farmer is hired to protect famous popstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love…

The plot follows the storyline of the 1992 Hollywood hit except for some parts in the finale but I won’t spoil it for you.

It originally opened in London in 2012, but due to the tiring tempo of the shows, the leading roles of Rachel and Frank have recently been replaced by Alexandra Burke and Casualty hunk Tristan Gemmill. I was told that acting singers cannot really do so many shows for more than six months at the time.

It was difficult for me to think of anyone being able to sing Whitney Houston songs but Alexandra Burke did a great job. Even her American accent was convincing and she can act too. Her performances are stronger than I can remember her on the X-Factor. During a recent interview on the ITV Weekend show she said that she found her groove only four weeks into the show. She also told that during the show she has to change 22 times and she does it in just 20 seconds per dress. Considering how elaborate some costumes were I am really impressed.

My favourite song performance was ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ when the audience stood up and started dancing along with the full cast.

My rating is 9/10.

Here is a little taster of the musical. Live it’s much better though!

Buy tickets online or call the Box Office: 0844 579 0094 if you want to see it before 29 August 2014 when it goes on tour.