Review: THE BODYGUARD (The Musical)

The Bodyguard, the musical adaptation of the 1992 self-titled film, starring Kevin Costner (Frank Farmer) and the late, great Whitney Houston (Rachel Marron), started out with a "blast" (literally) or should I say a loud BOOM, last night at the Belk Theater. With its opening number, Queen of The Nile", the cast emerges in fancy costumes and energetic dance moves. For those who have not seen the movie, The Bodyguard is a romance thriller about a professional bodyguard named Frank Farmer (Kevin Costner) who is hired to protect a larger-than-life pop star turned actress, Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston) who is being stalked and taunted by an obsessed crazed fan. This was Whitney's movie debut. Although the musical is slightly different from the film in that it focuses more on the music of Whitney Houston, it did capture highlights of the original film's story-line.

Speaking of music... all I have to say is three words...Deborah Cox! Deborah Cox! Deborah Cox! Might I add the titles, Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum R&B/Pop recording artist before her name, Deborah is no novice to the music scene. Her double platinum song, Nobody's Suppose To Be Here held the record for the longest running #1 R&B Single for 14 consecutive weeks. She also sang a duet with Whitney Houston entitled, Same Script, Different Cast. Whitney Houston would certainly be proud of how flawlessly and passionately Deborah created moments of nostalgia as she led us on a journey of Whitney Houston's "greatest hits". I am a huge Whitney fan; I am still amazed at how close Deborah came to matching "The Voice". At times, I closed my eyes and envisioned her singing those classic tunes to include: How Will I Know, Run To You, I'm Every Woman, I Have Nothing, Where Do Broken Hearts Go, Saving All My Love For You, and of course the Dolly Parton remake, I Will Always Love You. Although Deborah Cox was the star of the event and sang most of Whitney's songs, I would be remiss if I didn't mention the other two shining stars who also contributed to the greatest hits rendition, who were equally impressive. Jasmin Richardson, who portrayed Rachel Marron's sister, Nicki Marron was so in sync with Deborah Cox as she melodiously sang Whitney's classic tunes. And, Douglas Baldeo, who portrayed Rachel Marron's 14-year old son, Fletcher, matched the moments of nostalgia with such 'grown up" professionalism as if he has been singing all of his life (maybe he has). He reminded me of a young Michael Jackson. The three of them even blended their voices in a rendition of Jesus Loves Me. It was heavenly.

The Bodyguard also touched on sibling rivalry in the roles of Nicki Marron (Jasmin Richardson) and Rachel (Deborah Cox). Although Nicki is older and talented as well, the attention and fame is focused on Rachel which caused that green-eyed monster, jealousy, to raise its ugly head. Of course, that rivalry is escalated when "matters of the heart" enters the picture in the form of the bodyguard, Frank Farmer (Judson Mills). Mills is an accomplished actor who has appeared in over 35 guest starring roles on television to include Law and Order and The X-Files. He also had a recurring role next to Chuck Norris in Walker, Texas Ranger. The sparks between Frank and Rachel becomes unquenchable and they eventually give in to their passion, leaving Nicki a bit salty. In the best interest of everyone concerned, Frank decides to stick to the job he was hired to do...professional bodyguard.

Although there is a lot of twists, turns and plot maneuvering in the musical, the ending made us all want to Dance With Somebody! The costumes, the set, the energy in the theater was electrifying and magnetic. The cheering and standing ovation served as evidence that The Bodyguard (The Musical) is a riveting play that touched the soul of those who had on their dancing shoes, especially a particular Whitney Houston fan.

The Bodyguard (The Musical) runs through March 12th at the Blumenthal's Belk Theater. Tickets are available at http://www.blumenthalarts.org

To post a comment, you must register and login.