(4 / 5)
From the moment Mireia Mambo bursts onto the stage, complete with a high octane, hugely talented ensemble, the tone is set for an incredible production of The Bodyguard at the Wales Millennium Centre.
Since it’s opening in the West End in 2012, the show has endured, with countless tours sold out across the world, plus a triumphant return to the West End in 2016-17. Based on the infamous 1992 film, starring Whitney Houston herself, it features an incredible array of Whitney’s most famous hits, such as Greatest Love of All, Queen of the Night, I wana dance with Somebody and of course, I Will Always Love You, which Mambo performs with fire and determination. She brings a huge intensity to the role, flipping between the strong, no-nonsense, superstar and the loving mother of her ten year old, Fletcher. She has a dynamic stage presence and owns the stage in every number, with fantastic vocals and amazing dance ability.
Adam Garcia has a brooding intensity as Frank Farmer, the titular Bodyguard. It is a shame we don’t get to hear his real vocal ability, but I must say, his rendition of I Will Always Love You at a karaoke bar is one of the highlights of the show. The relationship between the two is passionate and believable, but so are his quieter moments, such as with Fletcher and at the cabin where he finally reveals his softer side.
Sasha Monique portrays the overshadowed sister, Nicki Marron, but her voice more than holds it own against Mambo’s. She has a richness in tone and an excellent ability with dynamics in the classic songs. Her beautiful version of All At Once was a pinnacle of the show.
The whole cast are excellent, but the ensemble deserves special mention. They are incredibly talented; the dance numbers are high octane spectacles which meant I didn’t know where to look next! They truly create the atmosphere of the show and the final curtain call is especially jaw dropping.
Staging is simple but effective, with slick movement of curtains and set pieces moving on and off stage seamlessly. It serves to never slow down the pace of the production. There is excellent use of projection throughout, including that memorable image of Rachel in Frank’s arms, and a beautiful final montage of their relationship during I Will Always Love You. Lighting is also excellent, drawing the eye and adding depth and drama to the already intense sequences. Along with beautiful costuming, the production values here are very high.
Although it’s a show that’s been around for 14 years, it’s always nice to see a new iteration, and this tour certainly lives up to its predecessors. With songs that you can’t help but tap your foot to, along with some of the most beautiful, powerful ballads in pop, it’s one that still stands the test of time, even 34 years after the original film was released.