The Bodyguard, the Musical, is a stage adaptation based on the 1992 blockbuster Warner Bros movie. It contains many of the musical numbers featured in the film, including the number one smash hit, ‘I Will Always Love You’, sung memorably by Whitney Houston, which is a cover of Dolly Parton's 1973 hit single.
If you are feeling relaxed or tired after a day's work, you won’t be when the production springs to life with a loud gunshot, accompanied by a cinematic projection of a murder. Throughout the evening, the projections complement the storyline.
There are minimal props and the set is often sparse but detailed when it needs to be, with the use of curtains and lighting enabling seamless changes. The log cabin stage setting was particularly impressive and worked well with the storyline. The costumes, wigs and makeup also play their part in the theatrical experience.
This adaptation is updated from the movie script and varies in parts, but is largely the same. Adam Garcia fills Mr Costner's shoes as the stoic and methodical bodyguard, Frank Farmer. As a seasoned actor on stage and the big and little screens, it is no surprise that he plays his role convincingly. Sidonie Smith shines in Whitney’s role as Oscar-nominated superstar singer Rachel Marron. Whilst these characters echo the film, Rachel’s sister in the shadow, Nicki, has a more likable characterisation. Sasha Monique excels in this role and is a superb singer; I would say more than a match for her sibling. I really enjoyed her performance.
But the real star of the show is the timeless and brilliant musical score, done justice by orchestrator Chris Egan and his band. It is augmented by Karen Bruce’s slick choreography, performed by the excellent cast and ensemble.
Soon into the performance, we are treated to a run of beautiful and melancholy songs from Whitney Houston’s debut album, such as ‘Saving All My Love’ and ‘The Greatest Love of All’. The placement of the songs is perfect and follows the momentum of the story, with many of the up-tempo tunes landing after the interval.
The soundtrack spans the 80’s and 90’s and adds nostalgia to the production. The grand finale had to be - and was - a stirring rendition of ‘I Will Always Love You,’ which didn’t disappoint. As the bows and plaudits were taken, the entire cast and ensemble leaped into an energetic version of ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody,’ to send the audience home with a spring in their steps.
This is a lively, fun, and nostalgic stage adaptation with a wonderful musical score. It will appeal to all musical fans, in particular, fans of Whitney Houston and those in search of a sprinkling of nostalgia.
Production run (The Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield): 10th February – 14th February 2026.
Running Time: around 2 hours and 10 mins, including an interval.
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/the-bodyguard-2026/dates
Reviewer: Matthew Burgin
On: Tuesday 10th February 2026
