Press Tickets
I wasn’t sure where to start with this review so I’ll begin at the logical place with the first scene. I’ve never been to a show before with quite so explosive an introduction. The stage literally lit up as Zoe Birkett burst onto the stage as Rachel Marron. With a group of backing dancers who certainly knew their way around big musical numbers, vocals that immediately had your full attention and fire effects to add to the heat and energy, it’s safe to say that The Bodyguard had us hooked from the start.
I had taken my friend along and neither of us had actually ever seen The Bodyguard on stage or the classic film, much to the dismay of some of my fellow bloggers and show-goers, however I did enjoy the fact that I had no idea what was about to happen (a total change from when I went to see Dirty Dancing recently, as I know that script off by heart). It meant that we went into things without any preconceptions, and I really enjoyed finding out how the love story between the two main leads was going to play out.
The show is visually stunning with plenty of beautiful costumes for Rachel, but I also enjoyed seeing her in more casual clothing during her down time, which helped lend to the vulnerability of her character and I think also made me warm to her as well, despite her frosty reception towards Ayden Callaghan’s Frank Farmer. Although it is undeniable that Zoe is phenomenal as a performer (that voice is amazing), it was Ryo Appadu who played Fletcher with his cheeky grin, fantastic stage presence, dance moves and vocals that had the audience on the edge of their seats during a particularly climatic scene – everybody wanted that little boy protected at all costs!
As for the soundtrack, you’re spoilt for choice with plenty of power ballads, heart-wrenching lyrics and a cast who are very talented singers (even those in the karaoke scenes were perfect at being ‘bad’). I knew of a couple of songs that would be in the show beforehand (including iconic hits One Moment in Time, Saving all My Love and of course the incredible I Will Always Love You) but I was blown away by just how many there were and how they were perfectly weaved into the story, building on character development. It was also clever how some songs began in another setting before being transported onto the stage – I was very impressed by all those working hard behind the scenes (and occasionally on the stage itself mid-song) to assist Zoe in her costume and hair changes to transform her into a performer.
Both set design and lighting were fantastic at adding realism to the scenes, especially those involving the stalker, and I literally jumped out of my seat a couple of times thanks to the tension on stage – it really was a fantastic performance and my friend and I both left in awe (after we had the chance to sing and dance along during the curtain call – so much fun)!
And what did we think of the love story? I don’t want to spoil the show for anybody like me who doesn’t know the storyline, but let’s just say the final song may have you reaching for those tissues you brought along ‘just in case’. Powerful, dramatic, with laugh out loud moments to ease that tension, The Bodyguard is on in Bournemouth until Saturday 12th August and you won’t want to miss it! Tickets are available from the box office and online. It was also great to have a pre-show drink at newly launched Elevate, just a short walk from The Pavilion at The BIC (they also serve food if you’re looking for something to eat before the show).
I was provided with complimentary tickets to the show for the purpose of review, however all words are my own.
