The Bodyguard
There’s a particular electricity in the air when a show built on some of the most iconic pop songs of the 20th century rolls into the New Wimbledon Theatre.
Based on the 1992 film (but be warned this production isn't a carbon copy of the film) the musical follows former Secret Service agent Frank Farmer, hired to protect global superstar Rachel Marron from a stalker. The plot is familiar and occasionally formulaic, but this production understands exactly what it is: a romantic thriller wrapped around a hit packed concert and it delivers that combination with confidence.
The real triumph here is the award winning soundtrack at its centre. Tackling Whitney Houston’s catalogue is no small feat, yet Sidonie Smith approaches Rachel Marron with technical control. Rather than attempting imitation, she brings her own phrasing and vulnerability to the classics we all know and love and as long as you know you are not listening to Whitney you will enjoy it.
Opposite her, musical theatre royalty Adam Garcia as Frank Farmer offers a grounded, restrained counterbalance. His stillness works effectively against the high gloss world of celebrity excess. It is quite amusing watching talented Garcia sing, playing someone who can't sing. While both their chemistry takes time to ignite, the gradual thaw between protector and protected adds texture and drama to the second act.
Sasha Monique gives an effortless powerhouse vocal as Nicki Marron winning over the audience all most instantly and James-Lee Harris turns a lot of heads with his spine chilling cameo's in the show.
Visually, the production is slick with minimal set making it the perfect touring production. Concert sequences explode with colour and tight choreography, while quieter scenes are framed with smaller sections of the stage and cinematic lighting that nods to the show’s film origins. The transitions are largely seamless, though the pacing occasionally sags during exposition heavy moments. Some dialogue scenes feel like connective links between songs rather than adding to the drama and plot. Yet this is a musical that understands its audience. By the time the encore begins (and yes, there is an unapologetically joyous encore) the entire theatre is on its feet. It’s less polite curtain call and more communal celebration.
Is The Bodyguard narratively ground-breaking? No, but as a night of big vocals, glossy spectacle and 90's nostalgia, it hits its mark with precision.
This show was reviewed at the New Wimbledon Theatre, London on the 16th February 2026 where it runs until the 21st February 2026. Tickets available here: The Bodyguard Tickets | New Wimbledon Theatre in Wimbledon | ATG Tickets
Full tour dates here: The Bodyguard Musical | Official Site
Review written by Sam Sadler
AD/Gifted
Photo credit: Paul Coltas
Check out other reviews from Curtain Call Reviews and get in touch to have our reviewers head to your show.