REVIEW OF THE BODYGUARD, THE MUSICAL BY LYNN CARROLL

January 14, 2026

Wow, wow and wow again. This was a show that definitely had that sometimes evasive wow factor and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I saw this musical almost three years ago at the Cliffs Pavilion and I seem to remember that it fell the tiniest bit short of my expectations, minor niggles that in no way spoilt my enjoyment of the show. However, this production upped its game and I can say hand on heart there were no niggles this time, it was a class act. If you can find or remember my initial review of 2023 you will note that I was disappointed by a costume failure where (in my opinion), in a particular scene, a dazzling one was required...this time they got it right.

The show followed exactly the previous one in script, settings and overall performance but with a fresh cast and new producer. You may think this would have no bearing on the overall performance but I promise you it did. From the opening until the final finale I was totally immersed; smiling, laughing, clapping and toe tapping, where appropriate of course. I say final finale because after taking their bows the cast suddenly flipped into a song and dance routine which had the whole audience on their feet dancing and clapping.

The villainous stalker in the show was suitably menacing and at one point I nearly jumped from my seat at his sudden backlit appearance, I am sure I wasn’t the only one. During his curtain call he was suitably booed but also loudly applauded. It was amusing to then see him in the final song and dance routine taking the leading lady’s hand and singing a few lines to her before joining the cast in the energetic singing and dancing.

I cannot fail to mention the absolute cutest act in the show, the ten year old who played Rachel Marron’s son, Fletcher. A talented child actor will always bring forth a lot of applause and ‘aaaahs’ despite the adult talent surrounding him, but it was well deserved and I can see a very successful career ahead of him should he wish to go along that path.

Adam Garcia set the tone just right with his portrayal of the bodyguard, Frank Farmer. It wasn’t a role where his talent could be shown to its full extent as his role demanded a rather cold detachment in his demeanour, but his film and other acting credits speak for themselves evidenced by taking up almost a whole page in the programme.

Sasha Monique as Rachel Marron’s sister received tumultuous applause, and rightly so as her voice was amazing. I could name each cast member and praise their abilities in making this show so incredibly good, but suffice to say every part was played to perfection.

In conversation with the couple sitting next to me I think I managed to persuade the gentleman that he should watch the film. He confessed he had not done so (his wife had) as he thought it was just another Chick flick, I also managed to disabuse him of that idea.

I left the theatre feeling I had a truly joyful and entertaining evening, so much so I would happily watch the show again before its run at the Cliffs ends. I can’t say better than that, can I?