Does The Bodyguard’s Magic Translate to the Stage? Our Review

Currently playing at the Palace Theatre in Manchester, The Bodyguard the Musical brings the story of Rachel Marron (Sidonie Smith) and Frank Farmer (Adam Garcia) to the stage, set to a soundtrack packed with Whitney Houston’s most iconic hits. Based on the much-loved 1992 film, it’s a show that comes with big expectations, especially for anyone who knows the movie well.

I went along excited to see how such a cinematic story would be re-imagined for live theatre. There was a great atmosphere in the theatre, and from the opening moments it was clear that the cast were committed, energetic and vocally very strong. The music, in particular, plays a central role in the production and is a huge part of the experience.

Bodyguard, The Palace Theatre Manchester

As with any adaptation, though, the real question is how it makes you feel, and whether it captures the heart of the original. While there were definitely highlights, I left the theatre with mixed feelings, which I’ll explain a little more as this review goes on.

What Is The Bodyguard About

The Bodyguard is a 1992 romantic thriller that follows Frank Farmer, a former Secret Service agent who is hired to protect global superstar Rachel Marron after she begins receiving disturbing death threats. What starts as a strictly professional arrangement slowly develops into something more complicated, as the two are forced into close quarters and an emotional connection grows alongside the danger surrounding them. At its heart, the film blends suspense with romance, exploring themes of trust, vulnerability and the cost of living in the public eye.

The screenplay was written by Lawrence Kasdan and had been around Hollywood for many years before it was finally brought to the screen. Originally conceived in the 1970s, the script underwent extensive development and was considered for several leading stars before Kevin Costner was attached to the project. He later helped bring the film to life with Whitney Houston in her first major film role.

While the movie itself received mixed reviews on release, its soundtrack became an instant phenomenon. Whitney Houston’s powerful performances, especially “I Will Always Love You”, defined the film and helped turn The Bodyguard into a cultural landmark of the early 1990s.

My Review of the Bodyguard

Overall, I’d say it was really good, but not one that completely won me over. The cast was genuinely fabulous, and the vocals were incredible; there’s no denying the talent on that stage. Rachel Marron’s (Sidonie Smith) One Moment in Time was stunning.

For me personally, though, the production didn’t quite have the impact I expected. The set felt quite minimal and a little dull at times, leaving the movie’s backdrop somewhat lacking. And some of the Whitney Houston songs felt slightly shoe-horned in rather than naturally driving the story forward. Because of that, the show didn’t capture the movie’s dramatic emotional punch for me and ended up feeling a bit more like a Whitney Houston tribute, running alongside the story of The Bodyguard. This was not in any way the fault of the fabulous cast; it was more the adaptation that didn’t work for me.

If you hadn’t seen the movie, you would be none the wiser. And at the end, a big chunk of the audience was on its feet, cheering and loving the whole experience. Especially the finale “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”, which was fabulous. It’s definitely still an enjoyable night out, especially if you love Whitney’s music.

Where Can You See The Bodyguard

You can see The Bodyguard at the Palace Theatre, Manchester, until the 31st January with tickets from £15 plus booking fee.

And then at

• New Wimbledon Theatre, Mon 16 Feb – Sat 21 Feb 2026
• Sunderland Empire, Mon 27 Apr – Sat 2 May 2026
• Edinburgh Playhouse, Mon 18 May – Sat 23 May 2026
• King’s Theatre, Glasgow, Mon 25 May – Sat 30 May 2026
• Liverpool Empire, Mon 15 Jun – Sat 20 Jun 2026
• New Victoria Theatre, Woking, Mon 29 Jun – Sat 4 Jul 2026
• Bristol Hippodrome, Tue 11 Aug – Sat 15 Aug 2026

Please note, I was gifted the tickets, but a review was optional. Also, see where to eat and park near the Palace Theatre.