Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – until 4 November 2023
Reviewed by Gemma Gibson
5 ****
The Bodyguard is a classic – the love story and its unforgettable songs. When I found out it was coming to Southampton Mayflower I jumped at the chance to go.
After an unknown stalker leaves a letter in superstar Rachel Marron’s dressing room, a bodyguard is hired to protect her. At first Rachel fights the bodyguard’s wishes, wanting to feel free while maintaining the busy lifestyle of a musician and mother, but it’s not long before love takes over.
Emily Williams, who plays Rachel, is phenomenal. The real Queen of the Night. I don’t think there is one song she can’t sing. Smash hits including Greatest Love of All, One Moment in Time and All the Man that I Need are performed by Williams with a perfect blend of emotion, power and ease. As every song ends she leaves the Bodyguard (and audience!) stunned and enamoured. Especially after her rendition of I Have Nothing, which was my favourite.
The Bodyguard, Frank Farmer, played by Ayden Callaghan, Rachel’s sister Nicki (Emily-Mae) and the terrifying stalker – making us jump every time he came on stage – (Marios Nicolaides) are the other main stars of the show. It is so expertly cast. And of course there is Rachel’s son Fletcher, played opening night by Sam Stephens, who wowed the audience with his impressive vocal range and dance tricks time and time again.
This musical soundtrack, which we all know and love, cannot be outdone. Not only is it the backbone of this show, but it’s just a brilliant mix of heartfelt ballads and upbeat bops. It has the power to make us cry, smile and dance along in our seats. I Will Always Love You is undoubtedly the song everyone is waiting for, and Williams does not disappoint. I was quite surprised by the message at the beginning of the show asking the audience to not sing along, but by the time we were treated to a medley of Million Dollar Bill, I Wanna Dance with Somebody and So Emotional, it made sense. It took everything in me to not join in, but the incredible voices and choreography onstage made it worth it.
The music would be nothing without the live orchestra, which, under the direction of Sam Hall, brings the spectacle to life. From the opening beats of Rachel’s entrance, to the cast exploding onto the stage for a sparkly and energetic Queen of the Night, I immediately knew I was in safe hands with this production.
This is just one of those musicals that has everything – the fairytale romance, the drama, the jaw-dropping dance numbers, complete with dazzling set and costume. The scene and set changes must also be commended, with transitions so smooth you almost forget it’s happening live.
Ending the show with I Wanna Dance with Somebody the atmosphere at The Mayflower on Monday night was electric, as The Bodyguard received the standing ovation it so rightly deserved