FROM the first bar of The Boadyguard, the cast and musicians had the audience of Bristol Hippodrome hooked.

The musical is an adaptation of the 1992 film The Bodyguard which features a host of immediately recognisable Whitney Houston songs including One Moment in Time, I Wanna Dance with Somebody and her cover version of Dolly Parton’s I Will Always Love You.

Alexandra Burke returns to the role of Rachel Marron following her run in the show in both the West End and the subsequent sell-out 2016 tour.

She first rose to fame after winning the fifth series of The X Factor.

Her time on Strictly Come Dancing was evident in the dance numbers and her powerful and soulful voice wowed the audience. Finale songs got the audience on their feet and dancing.

Frank Farmer, our Bodyguard for the night, played by French performer Benoit Marechal was stoic and yet charming on stage, and there definitely seemed to be a spark between the pair.

Fletcher, Rachel’s 10-year-old son stole the show when he was on stage, proving that he could dance alongside professionals around him and his confidence shone out when he sung alongside the main star.

The audience was fully packed out, and full of groups of friends enjoying a night out together.

The love story played out but some of the most entertaining parts of the show were moments of comedy and main characters really did appear to be having fun on stage together.

Phil Atkinson, playing the stalker bad boy, created some genuine tension and the show had more scary and jumpy bits in it than I had expected. Broken up by karaoke, glittering costumes and dazzling dance numbers, the combination made the show fast-paced, especially in the second half.

The staging was very clever and if you want flame throwers, glitter cannons and disco lights, you won’t be disappointed.

A perfect choice for a night out with the girls. The Bodyguard is on at Bristol Hippodrome until April 6. Tickets £15-61

JULIA HIJSTEK