The stage version of The Bodyguard, that iconic 1992 romantic thriller starring Whitney Houston, has made its way to the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff, in the form of a mesmerising musical with Melody Thornton that had the audience captivated from start to finish. Queen Of The Night serves as a perfect opener with its incredible costumes and choreography, a high note setting the stage for a thrilling performance.

Leading lady Melody Thornton – best known as a former member of the Pussycat Dolls, and here in the role of Rachel Marron – leaves the audience in awe with her powerful ballads, including an incredible rendition of The Greatest Love Of All. If her vocal prowess and emotional delivery is captivating, it’s ex-Emmerdale and Hollyoaks cast member Ayden Callaghan who surprises us with a great voice as Frank Farmer, the bodyguard. Special mention must also be given to Emily-Mae as Rachel’s sister Nicki Marron, whose singing is a standout moment of this show – especially in Saving All My Love For You.

Act two starts with soulful renditions of All The Man That I Need and I’m Every Woman, flawlessly delivered by Thornton. Lighting, costumes, set, dancing, and singing are all top-notch, and be prepared for some unexpected thrills – the jump scares in The Bodyguard are sure to catch you off guard! This reviewer nearly spilt her drink multiple times from the surprises… For all this, the acting falls a little short compared to the overall production value and could have been more polished and refined to match the level of talent displayed in the singing.

Of course, the show culminates with I Will Always Love You, delivered with raw emotion by Thornton, and the performance ends with a fun singalong to I Wanna Dance With Somebody, a fitting finale that has everyone on their feet.

A talented cast, outstanding singing, dazzling costumes, and impressive choreography all amount to a show with plenty of highlights: not flawless, but liable to leave a lasting impression. This evening’s audience, for one, left the theatre humming choice cuts from the Whitney discography.

The Bodyguard, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Mon 24 Apr

On until Sat 29 Apr. Tickets: £19.50-£72.50. Info: here

words AMY WILD