Preview: The Bodyguard at Sunderland Empire

Superstars Announced for 2026 Tour of The Bodyguard Musical – Coming to Sunderland Empire

The Bodyguard 

Sunderland Empire

27 April to 2 May 2026

A powerhouse cast has been revealed for the eagerly awaited UK and European tour of The Bodyguard, the smash-hit musical based on the iconic film. Set to captivate audiences once again with its blend of romance, suspense, and unforgettable music, the production will grace the stage of the Sunderland Empire from 27 April to 2 May 2026.

Sidonie Smith will lead the cast as superstar Rachel Marron, joined by Adam Garcia as bodyguard Frank Farmer, Sasha Monique as Nicki Marron, and Matt Milburn as Sy Spector. At select performances, Rachel Marron will be played by Mireia Mambo, with further casting still to be announced.

⭐ International Star Power

Sidonie Smith, a celebrated musical theatre performer across Europe, brings a wealth of experience—and familiarity with the role. She previously portrayed Rachel Marron to critical acclaim in the German production of The Bodyguard in Stuttgart. Her extensive international résumé includes standout performances in Disney’s Tarzan, Chicago, Sister Act, West Side Story, and Cabaret.

Adam Garcia, known for his Olivier-nominated turns in Saturday Night Fever and Kiss Me, Kate, steps into the role of Frank Farmer, the stoic bodyguard with a complicated heart. Garcia’s wide-ranging stage and screen credentials include Wicked, 42nd Street, Coyote Ugly, and most recently, a crowd-favourite appearance on The Masked Dancer.

Joining them is Sasha Monique, fresh from dazzling UK audiences in Hairspray and The Book of Mormon, and Matt Milburn, a familiar face from Coronation Street and Hollyoaks, bringing his television charisma to the role of music exec Sy Spector.

Covering select performances as Rachel Marron, Mireia Mambo adds further sparkle to the lineup. With credits in Newsies, A Chorus Line, Sunset Boulevard, and Evita, she’s no stranger to the big stage or the role—having starred as Rachel in The Bodyguard’s Spanish tour.

🎶 A Legacy Reimagined

Based on the Oscar-nominated 1992 film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, The Bodyguard musical had its world premiere at London’s Adelphi Theatre. Adapted for the stage by Oscar-winning screenwriter Alexander Dinelaris (Birdman), and directed by Thea Sharrock, the show quickly became a West End sensation.

Nominated for four Olivier Awards, the musical’s success led to multiple UK tours and international acclaim, with productions seen by over 3.9 million people across 15 countries—including Germany, Australia, South Korea, and the United States.

At the heart of the story is a tense and tender romance between global music icon Rachel Marron and her bodyguard, Frank Farmer, as they navigate fame, danger, and unexpected love. Audiences can expect a sensational soundtrack packed with Whitney Houston hits, including Queen of the Night, I Will Always Love You, Run to You, and I Wanna Dance with Somebody.

🎟 Sunderland Empire Awaits

Don’t miss this thrilling theatrical event when The Bodyguard arrives at Sunderland Empire, 27 April – 2 May 2026. With an electrifying score and a newly announced cast of outstanding talent, this tour promises to be one of the hottest tickets of the year.

Tickets are on sale now via ATG Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/SundBodyguard2026
(Transaction fee may apply)