Ta-Tynisa Wilson and company of Slow Burn Theatre's "The Bodyguard." (Photo by Larry Marano)
A child sits on the floor absorbed in playing with toy car while his mother sings and plays “The Greatest Love of All” on the piano nearby. It is a tender moment that underscores the song's message of hope and trust in the next generation. In Slow Burn Theatre Company's moving and believable current production of “The Bodyguard,” the number transcends its pop anthem status; it becomes a heartfelt promise and tribute to children everywhere.
This show — and Slow Burn Theatre Company's production — avoids the common jukebox musical pitfall of forcing songs into a flimsy plot. Instead, Houston's chart-topping hits feel organic, rooted in character and circumstance.
Slow Burn's praiseworthy production, which runs about two hours and 15 minutes, including intermission, continues through Sunday, June 22 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts' 584-seat Amaturo Theater in Fort Lauderdale.
The live musical, with an engaging and touching book by Alexander Dinelaris, is the 2012 stage adaptation of the iconic 1992 film. The movie starred Whitney Houston as the fictional superstar singer-actress Rachel Marron, and Kevin Costner as her quiet yet devoted bodyguard, Frank Farmer.
Ta-Tynisa Wilson and company in Slow Burn Theatre's "The Bodyguard." (Photo by Larry Marano)
For this production, professional regional company Slow Burn Theatre has assembled a top-tier cast of triple-threat performers. Leading the way are Ta-Tynisa Wilson, making her Slow Burn debut as Marron, and South Florida performer, seen in mostly Miami productions, Gabriell Salgado as Frank Farmer.
Wilson, Salgado, and the large ensemble not only deliver Houston's signature songs with vocal power and polish — they also communicate the deep emotion behind the lyrics. A vibrant live orchestra accompanies them under the steady and nuanced guidance of music director Ryan Crout.
The musical's plot largely follows the film's suspenseful romance and thriller elements. In both versions, those close to Marron hire Farmer to protect her from an increasingly dangerous stalker, portrayed here by the tall and imposing Timothy Mark Davis. Throughout the story, the tension between Marron's fiercely independent nature and Farmer's protective presence holds us rapt. The suspense intensifies as the stalker closes in on Marron and her young son, Fletcher.
Speaking of the boy, child performer Jaxon Compas is not merely cute as Fletcher. He radiates curiosity, eagerness, and joy-along with a striking confidence rare for someone so young. Most importantly, Compas performs with authenticity and naturalism. When Fletcher says, “You're going to be great, mom,” toward the end before Marron's Oscars show performance, the young actor delivers the line with genuine love and joy. If this moment does not melt your heart, you might as well head to Oz and ask the wizard for one.
The entire cast demonstrates great heart throughout, and that includes Salgado as Farmer. This rising young star shines as the title character, nailing the character's quiet strength and unassuming confidence.
Initially, Salgado's Farmer is formal and reserved, as he should be, but as the show progresses, he subtly grows warmer and more relaxed. His chemistry with Rachel (Wilson) becomes genuinely moving, revealing a budding romance that feels authentic and earned.
"The Bodyguard" featuring Jaxon Compas and Timothy Mark Davis at Slow Burn Theatre in the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.(Photo by Larry Marano)
Speaking of chemistry, the exchanges between Farmer and Fletcher feel earnest and familiar. Wisely, Salgado and some other actors kneel by the boy to get on his level. The relationship that develops between bodyguard and boy calls to mind the bond between a child and a loving father or a youngster and a favorite uncle.
As likable as Compas makes Fletcher, we naturally grow worried when the stalker approaches the boy. Though menacing, the stalker is no fool - he cunningly finds Fletcher's exact location. Davis, in a deft turn as the stalker, speaks to the lad with just enough charm and sincerity to earn the boy's trust. Your blood runs cold when the stalker hands Fletcher a gun, evoking painful memories of real-life tragedies involving children and firearms, including heartbreaking school shootings.
Considering recent violent attacks against public officials, the story at the heart of “The Bodyguard” feels eerily and sadly timely. The show raises pressing questions about how to balance protecting public figures from dangerous individuals while allowing them the freedom to live their lives.
As Wilson winningly portrays her, we sense Marron's early irritation with Farmer. She resents his intrusion into her private life-he will not even let her go out for brunch with friends. Wilson paints a vivid portrait of Marron as a confident, self-possessed diva with commanding stage presence. To her credit, she never imitates Houston but instead crafts a distinct Rachel Marron that still honors the late superstar, who died in 2012.
At times, Wilson dazzles in glistening outfits from costume designer Rick Peña-and she shines as brightly as her wardrobe. With dark hair, luminous eyes, and poised physicality, Wilson owns the stage. Her soprano voice rings out clear, strong, and expressive, especially during “The Greatest Love of All.” She delivers the number with a warmth that conveys unmistakable maternal instinct.
But Wilson is equally compelling in quieter, emotionally raw moments. She is believably vulnerable, fearful, and heartbroken when the story calls for it.
Tears may well in your eyes during one of the show's most tragic scenes. In its wake, you long for earlier, tender moments of familial love-such as a gentle rendition of “Jesus Loves Me.” Wilson, as Marron, Compas as her son, and Lillie Eliza Thomas as Marron's sister, Nicki, sing it with peaceful harmony. You feel as though you are watching a close-knit family praying together at church - safe, happy, and hopeful.
Thomas, as Nicki, radiates warmth and pain. She is the overlooked yet ambitious and lively sister, talented in her own right but constantly in Rachel's shadow.
Thomas's voice is smooth, emotive, and ideally suited to the ballads she sings. And when Nicki enters Fletcher's room and finds her nephew missing, her shocked, overwhelmed reaction is hard to watch. It is real, raw, and heartbreakingly human. Indeed, it is the kind of moment that reminds us how high the emotional stakes have risen.
In a supporting role, Matthew W. Korinko is convincingly uptight as Marron's music producer, Sy Spector. He brings a nervous energy and a sense of urgency that suit the high-stakes music industry.
Matthew Korinko, Jaxon Compas, Ta-Tynisa Wilson and Gabriell Salgado in Slown Burn Theatre's "The Bodyguard" at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. (Photo by Larry Marano)
Under Slow Burn Artistic Director Patrick Fitzwater's sharp direction, we never question the mood of a particular scene. Whether it is tragic, romantic, nail-biting, or joyful, the emotions are always clear and believable. The production flows with cinematic-like fluidity and holds our attention throughout. Sound designer Dan Donato heightens the suspense with foreboding noises — including what resembles a heartbeat — without tipping into melodrama.
Lighting designer Clifford Spulock underscores the story's danger and emotional intensity with his bold use of red. At times, flashing lights lend a stylish, showbiz aura — fitting for a musical centered on celebrity and performance. During upbeat scenes, the lighting is bright and realistic; for more romantic or introspective moments, Spulock wisely opts for dimmer tones. Sometimes, this production pairs gunshot-like sounds with flashes of light. This enhances the drama without overwhelming it. In addition, an effect that resembles a starry night sky provides a nice elegant touch. And the inclusion of stage fog heightens the suspense.
Scenic designer Nikolas Serrano's sets are realistic and detailed without dominating the production. For instance, Serrano renders Fletcher's room with bright blue and yellow hues. Drawings on a chalkboard-like surface and the words “Fletcher's Room — Keep Out” are nice comical touches.
Another scene takes place in Farmer's cabin north of where the main action takes place. Colors such as brown and white lend the space a rustic, cozy feel. This is the type of place to which you would want to escape if you needed a respite from your hectic life.
The set design is darker during scenes in which Marron performs diegetic songs. The darker hue reinforces the danger in the story.
Slow Burn's "The Bodyguard" is far more than a nostalgic concert of Houston's greatest hits. It is a heartfelt story about connection, courage, and the cost of living in the spotlight. Slow Burn has gained a reputation for excellence — and delivers a production in which every song and every spoken word feels vivid, honest, and alive.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Slowburn Theatre Company's production of “The Bodyguard.”
WHEN: Through Sunday, June 22. Evening shows are at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; Matinees are at 1 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.
WHERE: The Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. 5th Ave. in Ft. Lauderdale.
TICKETS: Ticket prices start at $86 for general admission. Call (954) 462-0222 or visit www.browardcenter.org.
