The Bodyguard

For one moment in time, The Bodyguard graced Norwich with a tearful performance, and it was a night to remember.

Opening on the West End in 2012, The Bodyguard graced the stages of London with an opening show that forced its way into the hearts of all theatre lovers. This week, it graces the stages of Norwich Theatre Royal with week long performances for this artful city, once again.

Lovers of Whitney Houston will know this show, especially the movie it derives from. Late assistant director Frank Thompson made it his mission to promote this west end spectacle, travelling globally to prepare and present 10 productions for international audiences. Now known worldwide as intended, whenever it hits the stage, musical theatre fans rush to see it, unwilling to miss out on the vocal powerhouses that bless their stage.

The musical sought to switch the narrative from the film - but only slightly. It focuses less on Frank Farmer, and more on Rachel Marron; the famed Grammy award winning singer that becomes burdened with a ferocious stalker and a brooding bodyguard to match.

Standing in last night, actress Mireia Mambo began with an outstanding vocal performance of ‘Queen of the Night’. Accompanied by some wonderful back up dancers and glamorous outfits, it’s not hard for the audience to ascertain who we were looking at, for no introduction is needed for the fabulous Rachel Marron.

Venturing further into the starting act, fans of 2000’s filmography might remember Adam Garcia as the Aussie heartthrob from Coyote Ugly. A juxtaposition to his stern, protective Bodyguard character Frank Farmer. Although he didn’t get up on a bar and woo us with a dance, he still held our hearts with his tough and caring demeanor. Not even Rachel could resist, for they both quickly find themselves entwined in a complex romance that makes their situation even more complicated; especially when danger lurks around every corner, waiting to tear them apart.

Inevitably, tragedy occurs bringing a more serious narrative to the surface. One that deals with grief and letting go of what you love. It was during these moments that I heard sniffles besides and behind me. It brought more meaning to the songs we see performed such as ‘I Will Always Love You’ and ‘Run to You’.

One particular part of this production that cannot go unnoticed is the staging and overall mise en scene. The stage was effortlessly switched from large bright white drapes that mimicked the dramatic design of a mansion, to screens that encapsulated the stage for the projectors that replicate scenes from the movie. Unforgettably, though, the few performances from Rachel are what stood out most. From the outfits fit for a star to the moving stage platforms that had Rachel lifted into the air as though it was an actual tour or Oscar performance - it was wonderful to watch. Therefore, I must give props to those working behind the scenes to create these effortlessly transitioned landscapes.

In the end, I left this show feeling that perhaps I am partial to musicals that pay homage to legendary performers. Especially those like the late Whitney Houston; because despite our differing eras, I am able to relive what I would consider close to what it would have been like to see her live. Although I’m sure it could never compare to the original and incredible Whitney, I’m certainly grateful I had the opportunity to watch this iconic show and listen to her unbeatable discography.