Review - The Bodyguard at Milton Keynes Theatre

It follows the same plot as the movie starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner but mixed with some of the former’s big hits.

The former X Factor winner is rightly going to win plaudits for her voice as you would expect, but actually it was her acting that stood out more for me. Her comic timing generates some decent laughs throughout.

And she also gives the emotional scenes some full clout and is impressive throughout.

But while there might be some criticism for her for letting the audience hit the high notes, it did make for a truly interactive experience for the audience.

Thinking about it, her whole performance is nuanced and builds to the finale song. The one we all know, even those of us who have not seen the film. Her performance of I Will Always Love You is incredibly powerful and led to her gaining a standing ovation.

She is ably supported by an excellent supporting cast. Stuart Reid makes an excellent Frank Farmer, both tough and compassionate while I suspect we will see a lot more of Rachel John who plays Nicki Marron, blessed with both excellent range of vocals and acting.

A special word for the set designed by Tim Hatley which effortless transforms into all of the various locales using throughout the show. For bigger shows, quite a lot of the time, the action pauses for a re-designed set, but this allowed the action to flow effortlessly.

It does start with a bang. Literally, there is plenty of nervous laughter as it comes out of nowhere, and almost appropriately, an X Factor style introduction to our heroine. It’s an interesting start and one that draws the audience into it straight away.

The plot is a little loose throughout and there are various moments which might leave you scratching your head. The story is incredibly cheesy but like a good Brie, there is nothing wrong with a bit of cheese in the right context.

The Bodyguard The Musical is at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday April 23. Tickets for the show can be booked by calling the box office on 0844 871 7652 or visit www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes.

Alexandra Burke is not appearing at all performances.