How many worlds have been created on the Alhambra Theatre stage since 1914?
In a single explosive, fiery show, The Bodyguard The Musical took fans into the lives of a troubled pop star, a sister on the sidelines, stalker and mysterious protector.
The immersive show began with a bang - quite literally - as the audience gasped in shock at gun shell visuals and flames.
The international, award-winning smash-hit musical follows the same plot as the 1992 film, featuring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner.
Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don't expect is to fall in love.
It kicked off with a glittering arena-style performance from Rachel Marron, played by former Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton.
Wherever we were, we weren’t in Bradford anymore. This was the world of a sassy and stubborn star, completely oblivious to the fact her entire life and family were in jeopardy.
One thing is for sure: she’ll know that by the end.
Melody Thornton’s exquisite voice captured the audience’s hearts as she belted out classics by Whitney Houston.
The singer’s renditions of ‘Run to You’, ‘I Have Nothing’ and ‘I Will Always Love You’ in particular were delicate yet so powerful.
But, as the audience rode on the wave of her heartfelt melodies, there was always a lingering air of suspense.
I was on the edge of my seat - whether it was a spotlight on the knife-wielding stranger or the sight of a stolen dress.
My thriller-loving grandma was next to me, just as gripped as I was, in the darkness.
“It’s a good job I don’t have a heart condition,” she later joked.
Part of The Bodyguard’s success with suspense goes to Ayden Callaghan, who plays Frank Farmer.
Awkward at karaoke but good with a gun, the former Emmerdale actor created a stoic character who was ready to risk it all for love.
As the messy, romantic and somewhat cheesy storyline unravelled, each character became deep and rich in their own right.
I was really taken by the silky ‘Stella by Starlight’ quality to Emily-Mae’s voice as she played heartbroken Nicki Marron.
Reneo Kusi-Appauh was sweet and charming in his portrayal of Fletcher, the son of Rachel Marron.
The energy between characters Frank Farmer and Rachel Marron became electric and intense.
Marios Nicolaides sent hearts racing as the balaclava-clad stalker’s silhouette appeared in the doorway.
From drunken girls singing karaoke to bright flashing lights, the little details transformed this musical into a dazzling, feel-good experience.
In times tinged by darkness and worry, the theatre will always be a place for us to escape into other worlds.
- The Bodyguard is at the Alhambra until February 11. Call (01274) 432000 or visit bradford-theatres.co.uk
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