Dazzling, dramatic, and packed with talent
The Bodyguard certainly arrived with a bang at Milton Keynes Theatre last night (21/10). The award-winning international musical is in town for one week only, so be sure not to miss out on this iconic show.
For those not familiar with the storyline, The Bodyguard follows Frank Farmer, 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 audience, the show 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 felt you were in the presence of a true superstar. I particularly loved hearing her sing I Will Always Love You, sung with both delicacy and power.
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 who played the role of The Stalker with menacing energy, his presence was chilling, and left a lasting impression.
The show maintained 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 production also impressed with its clever use of projection, blurring the lines between theatre and film, especially in its depiction of The Stalker, which added a cinematic edge to the suspense.
Musically, the show 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 were truly amazing, bringing the musical to life with glittering performances and undeniable talent. The choreography was mesmerising to watch and added a real vibrancy to the production. Together with a great cast, powerhouse vocals and a clever use of staging (including fire!), this show was an absolute joy to watch.
The audience felt engaged throughout, from the jump-scare moments that certainly caught their attention to the playful booing of James-Lee Harris (The Stalker) as he returned to the stage after the show. Once the final curtain fell, there was a chance to enjoy a little more music, singing, and dancing, with many audience members up on their feet, soaking up every last moment.
If you’re after a night of brilliant music, gorgeous vocals, and gripping drama, The Bodyguard 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.
