Dazzling, dramatic, and packed with talent
The Bodyguard musical certainly arrived with a bang at Milton Keynes Theatre last night (21/10). The award-winning international production, part of the UK tour, is in town for one week only, so be sure not to miss this iconic show.
For those not familiar with the storyline, The Bodyguard musical follows Frank Farmer, a former secret service agent turned bodyguard, as he’s hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Although Marron is initially resistant to Farmer’s presence, the story soon shifts as the two find themselves falling in love. Modernised for today’s audiences, the production even touches on the risks posed by social media and the online world.
Rachel Marron is played brilliantly by Sidonie Smith, who truly makes the role her own and captivates the audience with her gorgeous vocals. Right from the start, you feel you are in the presence of a true superstar. I particularly loved hearing her sing I Will Always Love You, delivered with both delicacy and power — a standout moment in this Bodyguard musical review.
Frank Farmer is played with quiet intensity by Olivier Award nominee Adam Garcia, best known for roles in Coyote Ugly, Saturday Night Fever, and Kiss Me, Kate. Rachel Marron’s sister, Nicki Marron, is played by Sasha Monique, who delights with her beautiful and powerful voice throughout the show. It’s also impossible not to highlight James-Lee Harris in the role of The Stalker; his menacing energy and chilling stage presence leave a lasting impression.
The show maintains a fast pace from start to finish, with the occasional jump-scare thrown in for good measure (don’t say I didn’t warn you!). The Milton Keynes Theatre production also impresses with its clever use of projection, blurring the lines between theatre and film, particularly in its depiction of The Stalker, adding a cinematic edge to the suspense.
Musically, The Bodyguard delivers all the classics you’d expect, from heartfelt ballads to pop powerhouses, including So Emotional, Saving All My Love, Queen of the Night, One Moment in Time, Run to You, Greatest Love of All, I Have Nothing, Million Dollar Bill, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, and of course, I Will Always Love You.
The ensemble are truly outstanding, bringing the show to life with glittering performances and undeniable talent. The choreography is mesmerising and adds real vibrancy to the production. Combined with a strong cast, powerhouse vocals and clever staging — including fire — this Bodyguard UK tour production is an absolute joy to watch.
The audience remains fully engaged throughout, from the jump-scare moments that certainly grab attention to the playful booing of James-Lee Harris (The Stalker) as he returns to the stage after the show. Once the final curtain falls, there’s a chance to enjoy even more music, singing, and dancing, with many audience members on their feet, soaking up every last moment.
If you’re after a night of brilliant music, stunning vocals, and gripping drama, The Bodyguard at Milton Keynes Theatre delivers it in spades.
Photo credits: Paul Coltas
The Bodyguard: The Musical UK Tour is at Milton Keynes Theatre until 25th October 2025. Tickets are available from £42.50 (+ £3.95 transaction fee), General bookings: 0844 871 7615, Access bookings:0333 009 5399, Group bookings:0207 206 1174 or online.
Reviewed by:
I’ve lived in the Milton Keynes area all my life (with a brief Dorset detour!) and work in marketing by day. I’m also a Willen Hospice volunteer. I love being swept away by a great theatre show and discovering new corners of MK.
Fun fact: As a child, I performed as a jazz dancer in one of MK Theatre’s very first shows.
