Cover Christine Allado in a karaoke scene in the local staging of ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’ (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
Christine Allado in a karaoke scene in the local staging of ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’ (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
1 / 1
Now officially open for the country’s slew of world-class talents, the Proscenium Theater invites everyone to sit back and enjoy the local staging of the West End musical production ‘The Bodyguard’
Blending nostalgic disco lighting design with modern technical equipment, Proscenium Theater’s official inaugural production swept audiences off their feet with its state-of-the-art technology. 9 Works Theatrical’s The Bodyguard The Musical sure won the hearts of its audiences, with its simple yet captivating storyline matched with a cast that added new life into Whitney Houston’s iconic songs.
With his strong presence, nuanced acting and proven versatility, West End star Matt Blaker embodies the grit, discipline and quiet intensity that define Frank Farmer, the titular bodyguard character.
“What I love about Frank is that he’s fuelled by both duty and passion,” he shares. “He’s a man of many sides—family-driven yet fiercely committed to his work—and it’s a gift to be able to portray such a layered character.”
Above British actor Matt Blaker makes his Philippine theatre debut by portraying Frank Farmer in ’The Bodyguard The Musical’ (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
British actor Matt Blaker makes his Philippine theatre debut by portraying Frank Farmer in ’The Bodyguard The Musical’ (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
1 / 1
Meanwhile, international theatre sensation and Grammy-nominated artist Christine Allado bravely stepped into the shoes of Rachel Marron, leading the story forward as the production’s protagonist by channelling the different sides of a diva perceived to be a damsel in distress but sure can stand up to any threat she faces, except for the invitation of love.
The dynamics of Blaker and Allado is entertaining to watch yet one can sense the play’s hurried progression for them to exude romance that the iconic film has been known for. Amid the source material’s simplicity in writing and trope-laden perception of romance, the actors made up for it with their witty banters, evolving intimacy and impeccable musicality.
Read more: Inside look: Proscenium Theater and the cast of ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’
Above Musical theatre actor Vien King channels his venial side in portraying the stalker Agent Lany in ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’ (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
Musical theatre actor Vien King channels his venial side in portraying the stalker Agent Lany in ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’ (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
1 / 1
Adding depth into the story are award-winning gospel singer-songwriter Sheena Palad’s approach to the character of Nicki Marron. Besides earning well-deserved applause for her vocal prowess, she stirred the audiences’ hearts, making her character’s repressed feelings for Farmer resonate well with fans of stories wrought with unrequited romance.
Equally impressive was the performance of Vien King as Agent Laney. Amidst the revelation of his identity as Marron’s stalker has been too early for the musical’s narrative, King’s performance throughout the show is marked by his distinctive body language, visceral emotions and unassuming facial expressions when posing as the pop superstar’s ally.
Above Alternating for the role of Fletcher, Rachel Marron’s son, are Elian Santos and Giani Sarita (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
Above Tim Yap returns to the stage as Sy Spector (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
Alternating for the role of Fletcher, Rachel Marron’s son, are Elian Santos and Giani Sarita (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
1 / 2
Some of the notable gems in the production come from the performances of CJ Navato, whose career spans film, television and theatre; Elian Santos and Giani Sarita, delightful child actors from 9 Works Theatrical’s earlier production of Liwanag sa Dilim and sought-after host and eventologist Tim Yap, who has proven to be quite the revelation with his theatre acting chops that exude naturality and instinctiveness.
Musically, the production feels elevated (quite literally) brought upon by the powerhouse vocals of Radha, Jasmine Fitzgerald and Fay Castro. Performing like a true vocal trinity, the backup singers of Marron add flair into the musical play, making it like a high-octane concert together with the ensemble of dancers choreographed by Arnold Trinidad.
Above Christine Allado as Rachel Marron (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
Christine Allado as Rachel Marron (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
1 / 1
With a live band under the baton of Daniel Bartolome, the production makes use of Proscenium Theater’s expansive orchestra pit. Mio Infante’s scenography attempts to mimic the grandness of Hollywood mansions and other locations of the film yet exudes Eighties and Nineties style that complement with the actors’ hair and makeup design by Elliza Aurelio. However, this might confuse some audiences following the story that navigates through the social media landscape of today’s generation. Adding aesthetic elements to this are the video projections designed by GA Fallarme.
9 Works Theatrical’s The Bodyguard The Musical explores various important issues today that come with the price of fame and yet it centres on the original film’s impact on pop culture through music and romance. A spectacular experience indeed that many fans of jukebox musicals may enjoy, The Bodyguard The Musical nevertheless showcases world-class Filipino talent.
The Bodyguard The Musical runs until October 19 at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati.
NOW READ
Italy in Rockwell: Scavolini launches its new showroom at the Proscenium Residences
Edades West: A life curated, a space transformed
The Taste Edit at Podium Social: limited-edition menus available this October only
About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
