The Bodyguard – Bord Gais Energy Theatre – Review
by Brian Merriman

19 – 23 September 2023 – Produced by Xroads Live

I don’t think a leading star gets more solo numbers to sing than those required of ‘Rachel Marron’ (Emily Williams) in ‘The Bodyguard’. To hear an artist sing ‘an entire album’ live on stage and still come on at the end to belt out the dance medley is quite something.

Emily Williams, who was second in Australian Idol almost 20 years ago, hugely impressed with her stamina, range and interpretation which are the bedrock of this latest tour of what is known to many as ‘The Whitney Houston’ Musical, inspired by the iconic Warner Brothers film.

‘Rachel Marron’ is an Oscar-nominated singer with a murderous stalker, a sinister playing by Marios Nicolaides. What his real backstory and motivation are, as well as his tracking skills, remain somewhat opaque in the script, but they are played for abrupt and dramatic effect throughout, aided by Mark Henderson’s lighting.

The banging effects of the pulsating opening set the tone for the evening, where the vocals of Williams set the standard for an impressive night. Though not a natural mover, and at times not kindly treated by Tim Hatley’s costumes (with the notable exception of the final two), Williams took control of the challenging vocals and met everyone’s expectations, not as an impersonator, but as an interpreter in her own right.

Her on-stage warmth was particular with Fletcher (Manasseh Mapira), in such a believable Mother/Son partnership. What an experience for that young star. The ‘Marron’ family is full of talent and Emily-Mae’s Nicki (the sister who was passed over) sometimes rivalled Wiiliam’s show-stopping vocals.

The talented ensemble could sing and dance so well, especially in the up-tempo numbers. Dramatic presence was in the hands of Ayden Callaghan as ‘Frank Farmer’. Though it is not always obvious in the tight script, why he falls for ‘Rachel’, his consistent playing of the deep-voiced bodyguard was exactly what was expected.  The mellowing of the character later, particularly in his relationship with ‘Fletcher’ and in the Cabin scenes, was a fine contrast to the earlier professional, determined that nothing could distract him from keeping his project safe.

Sam Hall’s rich orchestra kept the soundtrack flying all night and had the audience singing and dancing at the end. If you want to hear some great songs live, then this company and Ms. Williams in particular will not disappoint. She makes it her own and Whitney would approve.

Book by Alexander Dinelaris
Orchestrations and additional music by Chris Egan
Musical Director: Sam Hall
Director: Thea Sharrock
Choreographer: Karen Bruce
Set and Costumes: Tim Hatley
Duration 140 minutes with interval.