I spilt my drink and screamed in horror when a deafening shotgun blast reverberated from a screen with silhouettes immersed in smoke and engaged in conflict.

An explosive opening set the pace for a high-octane musical - a fusion of genres creatively integrating gripping cinematic effects with a pop concert bursting with pizazz.

The production is inspired by scriptwriter Laurence Kasdan’s 1992 romantic thriller starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, the biggest selling movie soundtrack of all time.

The Bodyguard packs a punch with iconic numbers from the legend, nicknamed ‘The Voice,’ including ‘Run to You,’ ‘I’m Every Woman,’ ‘Greatest Love of All’ – and the consummate tearjerker ‘I Will Always Love You.’

Fraught with tension, the plot builds to its inevitable climax. It centres on the security of Oscar-nominated R&B superstar, Rachel Marron, who lives with her cute (and extremely precocious) ten-year old son Fletcher in LA, being severely compromised.

A stalker, who besieges her with letters and threatens to kill her, has infiltrated her dressing room and taken a red gown. Urgent action is required and former secret service agent turned highly respected bodyguard, Frank Farmer, a self-confessed loner, reluctantly agrees to protect the spoilt diva.

Adam Garcia as Frank Farmer Image by Paul Coltas

Sasha Monique as Nicky Marron Image by Paul Coltas

Sparks, the opposite of the romantic kind, fly as Rachel resents her freedom being restricted, creating tension in the household. The slim storyline is acted out against a backdrop of romance and razzamatazz which sweeps the audience off their feet.

While some of the acting felt contrived in parts, James-Lee Harris is excellent as the ‘psycho stalker.’ Oozing danger from very pore, his menacing presence is accentuated by larger than life cinematic big screen images as he plots his moves for Marron’s murder.

Sacha Monique excels in the role of Nicky Marron, Rachel’s devoted sister. A passionate and talented singer-songwriter who plays second fiddle to her revered sister, her acting, dancing, and vocal skills are excellent.

She deservedly elicits our sympathy when her unrequited affection for Frank is overshadowed by the intense and unstoppable affair developing between him and her sibling.

Matt Milburn is suburb as Rachel’s strident publicist and manager, Sy Spector whose self-interests fuel his fierce ambition. Adam Garcia is charming and beguiling as Frank, a consummate professional who breaks his sacred rules by falling in love with his ward.

The outstanding vocals of the night go to Mereia Mambo, the alternative Rachel Marron, whose diminutive frame belies her impressive range. Making the part her own, the crowd was equally bowled over by the big numbers and power ballads.

The choreography, courtesy of Karen Bruce, dazzles from start to finish. The diverse and deftly evolving sets by Tim Hatley are top class – as are Hatley’s glitzy gowns and captivating costumes.

A big shout out to the talented orchestra directed by Charlie Ingles on keyboard.

The audience erupted as the finale extended into more numbers accompanied by vigorous clapping and dancing.

While it had not been my greatest love as theatre performances go, the nostalgia and feel-good factor it inspires deserve a standing ovation.

The Bodyguard plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal until Saturday, August 1,2026. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

For details of the UK and international tour, visit The Bodyguard Musical | Official Site