REVIEW: The Bodyguard. The Musical - Liverpool Empire Theatre
X Factor Winner and three-time BRIT
award nominee Alexandra Burke first appeared in The Bodyguard the musical in
2014 and 2015. Her return to the show during 2018 and 2019 sees an even more
polished delivery. When I saw her in 2016 performing the role of Rachel Marron,
I was blown away. Her press night performance on Wednesday 27th February was undeniably
outstanding and her delivery impeccable. You could definitely see a more mature
portrayal of the protagonist and even Burke’s Strictly Come Dancing experience was evidenced by her fancy
footwork as she executed the choreography which accompanied the musical
numbers.
Based
on Lawrence Kasdan's original screenplay, the movie hit our screens back in
1992 with the late Whitney Houston as the lead. Alexandra Burke cites Houston as
one of her sources of musical inspiration as she was a huge fan. True to
the film, the musical tells the story of former secret service agent, turned
bodyguard, Frank Farmer who is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an
unknown stalker.
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| Photo Credit - Paul Coltas |
Alexandra Burke's portrayal of Rachel Marron in the musical is a much younger edgier
version and as she arrives on stage belting out Queen of the
night as her opening number, you can’t help but be mesmerised and
take notice of her incredible vocals and stage presence. Her performance is
powerful, energetic and explosive. With a troupe of talented dancers at her
side along with the dazzling set and pyrotechnic display, it is a feast for the
eyes and quite breath-taking. I forgot from my previous viewing of the show how
powerful the heat was from the flames that were used in the effects. Note to
audience members – be prepared if you are sat near the front of the stage.
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| Photo Credit - Paul Coltas |
Micha Richardson plays Nicki Marron
(Rachel Marron's sister). Benoit Marechal was outstanding as Frank Farmer. He was extremely charismatic and his synergy with Alexandra Burke was electric.
Through its clever use of projected images and creative lightning, the set was highly impressive and created a tense and engaging atmosphere. Musical numbers included "Run to you", "I have nothing", “I’m every woman”. The show also included Whitney songs that did not appear in the original screenplay, such as "Million Dollar Bill". They were equally as powerful and delivered with finesse.
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| Photo Credit - Paul Coltas |
This production was exceptional and
the two hours went by so quickly. I almost didn’t want it to end. Expect tears
and expect to be "so
emotional" as you watch the story unfold. This is
without question a must-see. Whether you have seen the original screenplay or
not, there is a high probability that you will be counting down the days when
you can see it again. I would watch it again in a heartbeat. This international
award-winning smash-hit musical has been named “the hottest ticket in town”. I couldn't agree more.
PR Rating - 5 Stars
Excellent review x
ReplyDeleteThank you x
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