What an explosive start to a fantastic show, The Bodyguard bursts onto the Oxford stage with a dazzling mix of suspense, romance, and heartbreak, all set to the unforgettable soundtrack of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits.
Now playing at Oxford’s New Theatre, the production literally opens with a bang; flames, pounding music, muscular dancers, and a glittering palette of gold and black. At the centre of it all is Sidonie Smith, whose powerhouse vocals as Rachel Marron immediately set the tone for an exhilarating night.
A Story of Fame, Fear and Forbidden Love
Based on the iconic 1992 film, The Bodyguard follows global superstar Rachel Marron, whose fame brings both adoration and danger. When she begins receiving threatening letters, her team hires professional bodyguard Frank Farmer, played by Adam Garcia, to protect her and her young son, Fletcher.
Their relationship begins with friction, Frank’s strict security measures clash with Rachel’s glamorous, fast-paced lifestyle, but when danger strikes during a live performance (complete with a dramatic Officer and a Gentleman-style rescue), the two begin to see each other in a new light.
A night at a karaoke bar provides one of the show’s funniest scenes, as off-key patrons belt out 80s classics before Frank himself takes to the microphone for a hilariously awkward rendition of I Will Always Love You. It’s a rare moment of levity before the tension and danger rise once again.
Powerful Performances and Real Chemistry
Sidonie Smith delivers an extraordinary performance, vocally impeccable, emotionally rich and commanding from start to finish. Her version of I Have Nothing drew gasps and spontaneous applause.
She’s matched beautifully by Sasha Monique, who plays Rachel’s sister, Nicki Marron. Their duet of Run to You was one of the most powerful musical moments of the night, perfectly pitched, soulful, and deeply moving.
Meanwhile, James-Lee Harris brings real menace as the shadowy stalker, every appearance prompting uneasy shuffles and genuine jumps from the audience.
A Hit-Filled Soundtrack
This show is a gift to Whitney Houston fans. The score is packed with classics including How Will I Know, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Greatest Love of All, Saving All My Love For You, and of course, the breath-taking finale. I Will Always Love You.
Each number is staged with cinematic flair, enhanced by high-energy choreography and a dazzling lighting design that matches the scale of the music.
Verdict
With its mix of romance, danger, humour, and vocal fireworks, The Bodyguard has it all, a gripping story, electric performances, and hit after hit that keeps audiences on their feet.
This is a show that celebrates Whitney Houston’s timeless music while delivering a story that’s both thrilling and emotional.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unmissable!
The Bodyguard is at the New Theatre, Oxford until Saturday 11 October.
Tickets: ATG Tickets – The Bodyguard
