The Bodyguard At Blackpool Winter Gardens & Opera House Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Cath Joyce
Even after all these years the 1992 film The Bodyguard, remains one of my all time favourite films, partly because Kevin Costner played the lead role alongside Whitney Houston and also because of the fantastic soundtrack. Costner played Frank Farmer, the no-nonsense former Secret Service agent hired as a bodyguard for Rachel Marron, a glamorous pop star played by Whitney Houston who had been receiving threating letters from a stalker. At first the pair clash, with Rachel resenting Frank’s strict rules but as the danger intensifies their frosty relationship begins to thaw and what follows has become one of the most famous on screen love stories of all time, so popular it became the second highest grossing film of 1992.
The iconic film is now a stage show and last night we went to watch The Bodyguard musical at Blackpool Opera House. The show started with a bang – quite literally, I certainly wasn’t the only one who jumped at the loud start! The curtain then rose to reveal Rachel (played in this performance by Mireia Mambo) belting out the first of many hits from the legendary soundtrack. With dazzling pyrotechnics, dramatic lighting and glitzy costumes it felt like we had been transported straight into a 90’s pop concert and it really got the audience in the mood for a super show. The dancers were absolutely fabulous, bursting with passion and energy which continued throughout the night.
Stepping into Kevin Costner’s shoes to play bodyguard Frank Farmer was Adam Garcia and whilst in my eyes nobody can ever quite match Kevin, Adam did a wonderful job bringing his own charm to the role. A special mention has to go to the young actor playing Rachel’s young son Fletcher. Rio Chigwedere is one of four young actors playing Fletcher and The Bodyguard is Rio’s professional stage debut. He was a natural on stage, full of confidence and also had a lovely voice – he’s definitely one to watch out for in the future.
Mireia Mambo gave a strong performance as Rachel however we did feel she did seem to take a little while to warm up. In contrast, Sasha Monique who plays Rachel’s sister Nicki was simply amazing, her voice was powerful and clear and we both felt she could easily have played Rachel !
The set was excellent with the large Opera House stage easily switching between the glitzy showbiz world scenes, Rachel’s home and Frank’s mountain cabin.
The atmosphere in the theatre last night was amazing – although I would have preferred it if the lady next to me had waited until the end before she started singing. By the time the curtain came down, the whole audience was on their feet, dancing, clapping and singing along to the classic song “I Wanna Dance with Somebody.” It really was the perfect end to a fabulous show.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original film or discovering the story for the very first time, this musical needs to be on your watch list. With its mix of iconic songs, a very talented cast, and a touch of romance it has everything you need for a fantastic night out.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets start from £23.95
The Bodyguard is at Blackpool Opera House from 1st to the 4th October 2025. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk or call the box office on 0844 770 0593.
Winter Gardens Blackpool, Church Street, Blackpool, FY11HU