Audiences can expect powerhouse vocals, high-stakes drama, and Whitney Houston’s timeless hits when ‘The Bodyguard: The Musical’ makes its Manila premiere on September 26 at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati.
Presented by 9 Works Theatrical, the production marks the first major show to open at Rockwell’s new 780-seater state-of-the-art theater. Based on the 1992 blockbuster film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, the musical promises a night of romance, tension, and nostalgia—reimagined for today’s audiences.
Christine Allado, acclaimed for her West End roles in ‘Hamilton’ and ‘The Prince of Egypt’, takes on the role of superstar Rachel Marron, immortalized by Houston. For Allado, the project is both personal and full circle.
“Honestly, it means the world. This is where it all started for me. This is what formed me and gave me the fuel to go abroad,” she said. “Now, being able to do this role here, surrounded by family and community—it feels very full circle.”
Allado describes this version of Rachel as more than just a diva belting power ballads: “Our version of Rachel is like a pop idol today, someone who sings, dances, and commands a stage like a K-pop star. But at her core, she chooses to say: I’m enough. That’s what makes her powerful.”
Opposite Allado is British actor Matt Blaker, who makes his Asian stage debut as bodyguard Frank Farmer. While Kevin Costner’s stoic portrayal in the film is iconic, Blaker said his approach highlights a more emotionally connected character.
“Frank is an observer. He doesn’t speak much, so it’s about presence, timing, and subtlety. That was a challenge as an actor—to create impact with silence,” Blaker shared. “It’s really easy when you get to perform opposite someone as talented and beautiful as Christine.”
Blaker admitted it was Allado who convinced him to join the Manila staging. “It was Christine’s call that brought me here. The chance to work with her, to tell this story, and to perform in the Philippines, was an immediate yes,” he said.
At its heart, ‘The Bodyguard’ is a love story, made even more powerful with Houston’s unforgettable hits including ‘I Will Always Love You’, ‘Run to You’, and ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’.
“Rachel may be a superstar, but at the end of the day she’s just a woman who wants love and family. That longing is very relatable to Filipinos, who value both community and sacrifice,” Allado explained.
Blaker added: “It’s a story of love, passion, and tension, with characters that have so much to play. You can never go wrong with a show like this.”
Joining the cast are Sheena Palad as Nicki Marron, CJ Navato as Ray Court, Tim Yap as Sy Spector, John Joven-Uy as Bill Devaney, Vien King as Agent Laney, Jasper Jimenez as Tony Scibelli, and Paji Arceo as Douglas. Alternating as Fletcher are Elian Santos and Giani Sarita.
The ensemble includes Jasmine Fitzgerald, Radha, Fay Castro, Winchester Lopez, Carmelle Ros, Richardson Yadao, Iya Villanueva, Vyen Villanueva, Alex Aure, Julio Laforteza, Natalie Duque, PJ Rebullida, Lorenz Martinez, and Lani Ligot.
Behind the scenes, the production is helmed by director Robbie Guevara with a creative team led by musical director Daniel Bartolome, scenographer Mio Infante, choreographer Arnold Trinidad, lighting designer Shakira Villa-Symes, and video/projection designer GA Fallarme.
‘The Bodyguard: The Musical’ runs from September 26 to October 19, with shows at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and matinees at 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are available via ticketworld.com.ph.
“All of us hope you’ll come to see us,” Allado said. “It’s going to be a great show.” (with reports from Aldrine Benitez)
