Playwright: Alexander Dinelaris. At: Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St. Tickets: $44-$120. Runs through: Feb. 22
The Bodyguard is now a musical based off the hit movie of the same name. The story is brought forward in time to the present day and focuses on singer Rachel Marron, now played by singer Deborah Cox.
Judson Mills plays her protector, Frank Farmer, who is much beefier than the original bodyguard that Kevin Costner portrayed. Speaking of beefier, the role of the sister, Nicki Marron, is more substantial as well for this production. Instead of Cox doing all the heavy lifting, her sister ( played by Jasmin Richardson ) belts out many of Houston's hits throughout the show. Her voice is phenomenal and a standout.
The story begins with a bangone of Rachel's concerts, complete with shirtless dancers and the track "Queen of the Night." It felt like a Whitney Houston concert from the beginning. Sadly, Houston was not able to produce that sound live toward the end of her life so this was a rare opportunity to hear newer songs like "Million Dollar Bill" performed live with the chops that are similar to hers.
Several of Houston's hits are included throughout the story that were not in the original 1992 movie. Instead of new songs, the catalog of this Grammy -winning talent is highlighted throughout the production. Even the hymn "Jesus Loves Me," from the soundtrack, is effectively used in a touching moment. "I'm Every Woman" had a Latin feel to itand attendees should stay for the encore of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" after bows take place.
The stalker is downright scary in parts, heading into Silence of the Lambs territory with some of the surprises. Balancing this, there's a karaoke scene that not only is light and fun but advances Rachel and Farmer's relationship.
The love triangle between the sisters and their hired protector creates some drama and keeps things interesting. The original movie didn't have this tension, and the musical is better this way.
Rachel's publicist, Sy Spector ( nicely played by Jonathan Hadley ) might be gay, but it was Skip, the stage manager for one of her performances, that gave me problems. This stereotypical approach was offensive. Let's cut it before the production moves to Broadway, since it had nothing to do with the story and was awkward.
Overall, this was a fun, memorable tribute to a talented singer and songwriter by a strong cast.
Run to The Bodyguard before it leaves town.