The Bodyguard at the Palace Theatre Manchester Review

The Bodyguard
Palace Theatre, Manchester

8 December 2015 to 9 January 2016

www.atgtickets.com/palacetheatre

Reviewed by Tina Bailey

Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love.

Last night, I headed down to the Palace Theatre in Manchester to watch The Bodyguard the Musical. The venue is directly opposite Oxford Road Train station, so I’d advise travelling by train, if you want to avoid the £12 car park charges.

Once we were inside the theatre, I was struck by how friendly and courteous every single member of staff was. From the bar staff, to the security guys who had to search our bags – everybody we encountered was polite, and pleasant to deal with.

Once we were shown to our seats, I was very pleased to find myself sitting comfortably! We were on row P of the stalls, and our view of the stage was perfect. The seats are positioned on a slight incline, so the person in front of you is a little below you, so everyone should be able to see well in the stalls.

The show’s opening scene was explosive (literally). It began with two sudden huge, gunshots. I’m not a nervous person usually, but for a split second, I was afraid it was not part of the show. As soon as the lights came up and I realised it was all part of the act, I settled back and was wowed from beginning to end.

The show stars Alexandra Burke as Rachel Marron and Stuart Reid as Frank Farmer, plus an incredible support cast. From the second Alexandra Burke burst onto the stage, I was wowed. The show is similar to the film, but there are a few differences. These all work really well though, and added to the storyline. All of the songs you’d expect to be in the show were there, including a couple of surprises.

The singing, choreography and acting were all of West End standard. The subtle use of humour in places really helped to tie everything together, and lighten the mood at times. All told, it gets two thumbs up from me. This show will be enjoyed by thousands people for a long time to come.

Rating: 5/5

The performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.

Tickets cost from £18.50 to £57.50 (plus £4 transaction fee).

The Bodyguard is at the Palace Theatre in Manchester until 9 January 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 3019.

Palace Theatre, 97 Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 6FT | 0844 871 3019