WHAT do you get when you merge the very best of theatre with the magic of the movies?

Well, just go and see The Bodyguard and you will happily find out.

It is a gripping stage production that will have you hooked from the moment the curtain rises with an explosive (you have been warned) opening.

It will hit all your senses.

The Bodyguard is based on the 1992 film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner.

Here there are some new plot twists but if you loved the big screen version you will thoroughly enjoy this superbly-paced drama with a soundtrack to die for ... our heroine nearly does.

It's the story of megastar Rachel Marron who is being stalked.

Her 'people' call in the help of an extra security officer called Frank Farmer to keep her and son Fletcher safe.

They are both reluctant but what unfolds is a love story and every line of dialogue, back-screen projection and special effect moves the two-hour-25-minute show (including interval) along.

Melody Thornton of Pussycat Dolls fame is Rachel. She is sassy and sexy on stage while vulnerable and homely off it.

The chemistry with Ayden Callaghan's world-weary Frank is established from the outset and remains a strong beating pulse throughout.

And there are the songs - enough to fill any jukebox - greatest hits such as All At Once, Greatest Love of All, How Will I know? One Moment in Time and a spectacular I Wanna Dance With Somebody.

There are 16 in all and each song hits the mark and moves the narrative every time thanks to a top-notch band and faultless vocals from all the leading cast notably expressive Emily-Mae who plays Rache's sister Nicki.

There's humour throughout as illustrated in a clever karaoke scene. We have heard about the Singing Detective - now meet the crooning Bodyguard.

Director Thea Sharrock has a first class team who look as though they are enjoying every scene and song from ballad to dance number.

It is a West End smash that merges cinematic effects wonderfully well from romantic scenes to high suspense.

One other moment in time here is reminiscent of the Halloweem films with a touch of Alfred Hitchcock ingenuity.

The Bodyguard is pure exciting entertainment from the opening we see Rachel in concert to her sublime interpretation of I Will Always Love You.

And we the audience are on our feet during the encore realising that we, too, just have to dance with somebody.

A super slick sensation - Five stars

The production is on until Saturday

Tickets from atgtickets.com