The Bodyguard At Theatre Royal Plymouth Review

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

How wonderful to welcome ‘The Bodyguard’ back to the Theatre Royal Plymouth. I can’t believe it was eight years ago when it previously wowed Plymouth audiences and it is back with all the drama, glitz and glamour that we all loved then.

Being staged at such a lovely venue which is renowned for hosting a vast array of productions throughout the year, ‘The Bodyguard’ is certain to be another Theatre Royal sensation.

Having parked in the nearby car park – which now has a very convenient pay by phone facility- we were warmly welcomed by the front of house staff and quickly passed through the door security checks. Bar areas and the foyer cafe were very busy as people eagerly awaited the forthcoming show. Once settled into our seats, the lights dimmed as two gun shots from the stage resonated around the theatre and we were quickly drawn into the storyline.

Based on the 1992 film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, the story centres on vocal performer Rachel Marron ( played by Melody Thornton ) and her young son who are threatened by a psychopathic stalker. Her production team insist that a bodyguard is hired for their protection and former secret service agent Frank Farmer ( played by Ayden Callaghan ) is appointed for the job. Despite trying to keep a professional distance from Rachel, his feelings for her soon become obvious and when Rachel eventually accepts that her life is in danger from the stalker, she soon warms to the attention from Frank.

Rachel’s sister Nicki ( played by Emily-Mae ) has always had to take second place to Rachel and this pattern continues with her unreciprocated feelings for the bodyguard. Emily sang several songs and what an amazing, soulful voice she has.

The dynamic opening number with amazing dance energy and spectacular pyrotechnics certainly started the show with a bang – one of the most spectacular openings to a show I have seen. From this dramatic start to the iconic final renditioning of ‘I will always love you’ with Rachel raised high above the stage, the show was lively, dramatic and powerful.

Melody Thornton’s acting ability shone through and she appeared to grow and mature within the role with incredible vocals throughout – and those costume changes were amazing!

Ayden Callaghan as bodyguard Frank Farmer was brilliant, showing the responsibility needed to hold such a role despite his increasing feelings for Rachel. The comedy shown in the karaoke scene was great and showed a lighter side to his character.

Marios Nicolaides took on the role as the stalker well and had everyone on the edges of their seats every time he silently but menacingly appeared on the stage.

A special mention as well to the young lad playing Fletcher last evening. He acted and sang with such confidence and really interacted well with the cast.

Numerous Whitney Houston classics were powerfully delivered , along with brilliant stage effects and high energy dance routine projected well by a very talented team of dancers.

The party atmosphere which ended the evening, with the audience joining in dancing and singing with the cast, was a fitting end to a breath taking production.

Well Done Theatre Royal for securing another masterpiece for the Plymouth audiences.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £22.00

The Bodyguard is at Theatre Royal Plymouth until 1st July

For more information or to book the few remaining seats visit theatreroyal.com