Review: THE BODYGUARD, Theatre Royal, Glasgow

Global pop superstar Rachel Marron has attracted the attention of an unknown stalker. While Marron is onstage, he creeps into her dressing room and leaves threatening letters for her, prompting her security to hire a bodyguard to protect her.

The Bodyguard really excels when it comes to the concert scenes. Opening (quite literally) in flames, the sound and lighting give the feeling that you're at an arena or stadium event.

Although the film that the show is based on was released in 1992, it seems the musical still contains some surprises for a lot of the audience. Even being familiar with the musical from its last UK tour I found the show tense and unpredictable.

As wonderful as this staging is, The Bodyguard would be nothing without an outstanding Rachel Marron and they've certainly found that in Alexandra Burke. From the show-stopping big numbers like "Queen of the Night" to ballads such as "I Have Nothing" she has the audience captivated from the second she steps onstage. Burke also has mastered the initial stand offish behaviour of the character as Marron refuses to let anybody get too close to her- later thawing as she falls for Frank Farmer.

Benoit Marechal plays the role of Frank perfectly. He doesn't work with celebrities and has to be persuaded to take on the position of the bodyguard. He begins to care for his charge beyond the job description and to the absolute delight of the audience- the pair fall in love.

This tour of The Bodyguard is a complete spectacle with fantastic songs and a skilled cast. It's a guaranteed great night out that will almost certainly have the audience on their feet by the end!

The Bodyguard is at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow until Saturday 29th December.

Photo credit: Paul Coltas

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