The Bodyguard At New Victoria Theatre, Woking Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Kelly Victoria
Yesterday saw the opening night of The Bodyguard at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking and it was an absolute pleasure to visit one of my favourite local theatres to watch the show.
The house was completely full and everyone was sitting in their seats when the show started with a literal bang, as the sound of a loud gun shot filled the audience – making you gasp and jump out of your skin all at the same time.
We were then treated to the most amazing opening number where superstar Rachel (played by Emily Williams) belts out Queen of the Night accompanied by some phenomenal backing dancers and pyrotechnics, lighting the stage up with the most glorious performance. The incredible vocals were just an introduction of what was to follow through the whole show.
If you don’t know the story of The Bodyguard from the infamous blockbuster 90’s film, starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, it’s the tale of world famous singer superstar Rachel Marron who finds herself the victim of a stalker (played by Marios Nicolaides).
This leads to Rachel’s team taking on a bodyguard – Frank Farmer (played by Ayden Callaghan) who is tasked with protecting Rachel and her ten year old son Fletcher.
Initially Rachel isn’t a fan of Frank and the restrictions that she finds herself having to adhere to. However, through some chilling scenes, it’s clear that the stalker isn’t about to give up.
Rachel’s sister Nicki (played by Emily-Mae) falls in love with Frank, but as usual it’s her sister that secures the guy, just as she does anything that Nicki has ever wanted in life.
The romantic spark between Rachel and Frank, only increases the level of threat. The stalker hates that Frank is close to Rachel when he feels it should be him.
To support the thrilling storyline, the show includes all of the classic Whitney Houston numbers that we know and love. With touching performances of some of Whitney’s best known ballads, to some absolute showstopper numbers, the show is an absolute delight from start to finish.
One minute you’re on the edge of your seat, then next moved by some truly touching scenes, to then wanting to dance in your seat – all at the same time!
My favourite scene was at the end of act one, when both Rachel and Nikki as sisters sang, Run To You – I literally got chills. The combination of two insanely talented vocalists, created the perfect combination and left me astounded, at the sheer talent.
Emily Williams as Rachel was incredible, her vocals were powerful and made you sit back in your seat as she belted through number after number.
Emily-Mae as Nicki Marron, Rachel’s sister, was insanely talented. With the most impeccable voice which had a glorious tone, her vocals were sensational – I could listen to her sing all day long.
Marios Nicolaides portrayal as The Stalker is exceptional, he creates the most thrilling and suspenseful scenes all without barely saying a word through the show and appears almost out of nowhere. The intense and thrilling scenes just wouldn’t have been as effective, without Marios playing the role so perfectly.
The young actor playing Fletcher, Rachel’s son was absolutely adorable and he performed his character with skill, talent and enthusiasm. His dance moves were insanely brilliant, for someone so young.
Huge kudos had to go to the ensemble who were high energy and created some dazzling and sensational dance scenes in the show which were insanely choreographed by Karen Bruce. Without these huge high energy numbers, the show just wouldn’t have been the same.
Both the costumes and set were designed by Tim Hatley. The set was cleverly done, using moving pieces that worked really well and were as effective as any you’d see in a big London theatre. The costuming was fantastic for the big show stopping numbers, with sparkles and sequins galore.
To celebrate the end of the show, the whole audience was on their feet following a full standing ovation, singing and dancing to “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”. The feeling in the house was electric and everyone literally sang themselves out of the theatre.
If you love Whitney and the 90’s or even just want to watch a great show full of talent, thrill and vocal brilliance – get yourself tickets! The Bodyguard is an exceptional show.
The New Victoria Theatre, Woking is home to the show from 23rd to 28th October. Grab yourself tickets – you truly won’t regret it!
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-bodyguard/new-victoria-theatre
Rating: – 4.5/5