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Review of The Bodyguard, starring Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton, at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford

11:27, 28 March 2023

updated: 11:27, 28 March 2023

I have never jumped so much at the start of a musical before than I did yesterday at the opening night for The Bodyguard.

The musical, which is based on the 1992 film starring Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, had me hooked from the very start – I did not know if I was about to laugh, cry or scream.

Melody Thornton's voice gave me goosebumps. Picture: Paul Coltas
Melody Thornton's voice gave me goosebumps. Picture: Paul Coltas

The Bodyguard stepped onto the stage for the first time last night at the Orchard Theatre, in Dartford, to a packed out crowd.

It follows former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, played by Ayden Callaghan, who has been hired to protect Hollywood superstar Rachel Marron, played by Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton, from an unknown stalker.

The pair form an epic romance to the soundtrack of Whitney Houston's greatest hits including How Will I know, I Will Always Love You and Million Dollar Bill.

Melody's voice was phenomenal as she belted out the the chart-topping tunes, making it look easy while sending shivers up your spine.

A special mention has to be given to Emily-Mae, who starred as sister Nicki Marron, whose voice was equally as amazing.

Ayden Callaghan and Emily-Mae were fantastic. Picture: Paul Coltas
Ayden Callaghan and Emily-Mae were fantastic. Picture: Paul Coltas

Despite the beautiful singing by most of the cast, there is a stark reminder at the end of act one that not everyone can sing Whitney and maybe it should not be chosen as your karaoke track!

The new musical had me laughing, crying, singing and jumping out of my seat along with the rest of the audience every time The Stalker appeared as if in a horror film.

Marios Nicolaides made a terrifyingly good villain reminding the crowd that this is not only a romantic tale but was also partly a suspenseful thriller.

Not having seen the film myself, I was told by my theatre partner that it had enough similarities to keep fans happy but was also different enough to keep them entertained.

Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton is starring alongside Ayden Callaghan. Picture: Paul Coltas
Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton is starring alongside Ayden Callaghan. Picture: Paul Coltas

The whole cast was incredible, transitioning from the upbeat scenes to the emotional to the thrilling with ease, and kept me on a rollercoaster of emotions throughout.

The Bodyguard will be at the Orchard Theatre in Dartford until Saturday, April 1. You can book tickets online here.

You can also book by calling the theatre on 03433 100033.

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