The Bodyguard Review: Houston's jukebox musical, delivered at the highest calibre
- Emma Knott
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
16 February 2026 I 19:30 I New Wimbledon Theatre, London
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I PR - Invite
The Bodyguard is back in London with a bang... quite literally, as the show opens with a room-shaking gunshot to make the entire audience jump! Made famous as a Whitney Houston jukebox musical, it delivers a cinematic, concert-like experience with drama and powerhouse vocals of the highest calibre. This is its fourth major production, opening this week at the New Wimbledon Theatre before continuing on a major UK & International tour.
The musical numbers are instantly recognisable, after her starring role in the original film of The Bodyguard in 1992. As a huge fan of Mick Jackson's film, I was eagerly anticipating this production, and it far from disappoints! The slight drawback of so many beloved, feel-good songs is the inevitable murmur of audience members singing along, often more prominent at weekend performances. The show features hits such as I Will Always Love You and I'm Every Woman (originally recorded by Dolly Parton and Chaka Khan respectively), made iconic in pop culture through Houston. Culminating with I Wanna Dance With Somebody, the audience are invited to stand up, sing and dance along.
Sidonie Smith delivers an exceptional performance as Rachel Marron with confidence, control and commanding magnetism. Stepping into such a mammoth role is no easy task, but she makes it entirely her own. Vocally, Smith is outstanding, navigating the score's demanding range with emotional depth. Her rendition of I Will Always Love You is the true showstopper, starting the tears rolling with both vulnerability and power. In contrast, numbers like Queen Of The Night exhibit her dynamism and connection with the audience. Smith is beautifully complimented by Sasha Monique (Nicki Marron), who shines in both solo and duet numbers.
Adam Garcia is a truly enthralling Frank Farmer, the title role originated by Kevin Costner. The role demands quiet authority and a dominating stage presence, Garcia honouring both. He captures Frank's professionalism and guarded nature, allowing his softer personality to emerge naturally. His chemistry with Smith's Rachel is entirely absorbing and believable in its intimacy.
A lively, talented ensemble is equally captivating, where Karen Bruce's choreography is slick and precise, executed with impressive stage mastery. Rachel's security team (John Macaulay and Matt Millburn) provide comic relief to a weighted storyline of stalking and obsession. Cale Cole played tonight's Fletcher Marron, sharing the role with three other young performers. He is magnificent for such a young age too - witty, cheeky and coming with some epic dance moves!
Directed by Thea Sharrock, this revival is exceptionally polished. Set and costumes, designed by Tim Hatley, are phenomenal, from holographic effects and pyrotechnics to jaw-dropping quick changes. Rachel's Oscar's gown is dazzling, almost like watching a screenplay, with sequences played out on the screens and integrated into live action.
In short, The Bodyguard is a thrilling, high-octane production that brilliant balances cinematic spectacle with genuine profundity. With tremendous production values, fans of the original and those discovering the musical for the first time can expect to fall in love with an unforgettably captivating experience. Leaving you humming all the way home, be sure to catch The Bodyguard at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 21st February and beyond!!
Tour Information & Tickets: https://www.thebodyguardmusical.com/
