Reviewed by Kathryn Harrison
Last night I visited Liverpool’s Empire Theatre with my mum to watch The Bodyguard the musical. Based upon the iconic 1992 movie the show tells the story of Rachel Marron, an international superstar who comes under threat from a potentially violent stalker. Frank Farmer is hired as The Bodyguard to protect Rachel and her son Fletcher. I wasn’t sure how this film would translate to the stage so was looking forward to finding out.
There was an explosive start to the show with Alexandra Burke bursting onto stage as Rachel Marron to perform Queen of the Night. This first song was absolutely brilliant, Alexandra’s vocals were outstanding and the dancing was highly energetic and excellently choreographed. This performance set the bar for the rest of the show with all the musical numbers and dancing being superb, these parts of the show were enhanced further by fantastic lighting effects and sets which made the whole thing a complete visual and auditory treat.
Alexandra Burke as the lead female role was accompanied by Benoît Maréchal as the male lead role of Frank Farmer and various other actors playing the supporting characters. Jesse Oniha stole the show as Rachel’s son Fletcher, he was absolutely adorable and very talented for such a young child. Playing Rachel’s sister Nicky Marron was Micha Richardson, she is a wonderful singer and expertly took on the complicated role of Nicky. Unfortunately I felt that at times the acting from the rest of the cast felt a little stiff and wooden. I didn’t feel any tension or chemistry between the characters of Rachel and Frank and the script didn’t always tell the story in the best way possible however thanks to the phenomenal musical performances from the two lead females and the exceptional lighting and stage management this was still an extremely enjoyable show to watch. I wouldn’t recommend this show if you’re looking for a strong storyline and tense drama, however for a fun evening of music and dancing this is definitely the show for you!
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £12 to £68.50 (plus £3.65 transaction fee).
The Bodyguard is at the Liverpool Empire from 26 February to 9 March 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/liverpool or call the box office on 0844 8713017.
Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE | 0844 8713017
