Tony award-winning actress and Grammy award-winning songstress, Heather Headley, has secured the lead female role in the musical version of the classic Whitney Houston film, The Bodyguard.
The Trinidadian-born Headley will play Houston’s role of singer in distress, Rachel Marron, while Lloyd Owen will play Kevin Costner’s part, in the UK-based production.
The show marks the U.K. stage debut for Grammy winner Headley, who also won the Best Actress Tony for her performance in Disney’s Aida. Her other stage credits include Broadway productions of Dreamgirls and The Lion King.
Headley recently told the Daily Mail newspaper about her reluctance to play the part Houston’s role, especially after the icon’s tragic death in February: “It becomes harder now that she’s gone,” Headley stated. “It was an iconic role before, and it’s even more so now. But what makes it easier for me is that I know I can’t live up to her. It’s very simple.”
The musical will be directed by Thea Sharrock and produced by David Ian and Michael Harrison, with rehearsals commencing in September.
Previews start at the Adelphi Theatre, London, on 6 November, with an official opening night gala set for 5 December.
The November previews will come about nine months after Houston’s February death. The original 1992 Bodyguard film was the actress’ screen debut. The romance, thriller film followed a popular singer and her bodyguard, who protects her from a stalker. The musical version of the film will include songs from the movie, as well as other Houston hits. Songs will include ”Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “I’m Your Baby Tonight,” “How Will I Know,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” “I Will Always Love You,” “Run to You,” and “I Have Nothing.”
To date, Headley, who is originally from Barataria, has released three solo albums and won two Soul Train awards, one Grammy award. She lives in the U.S. with her husband former NY Jets player Brian Musso and their son, John David.
Congrats Heather! The producers made a perfect choice with you! *highfive*
Do you agree with the producers to have Headley play the role Whitney Houston? Leave a comment.
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May 9, 2012 at 7:42 am
[...] Heather Headley lands role of Whitney Houston for “The Bodyguard” musical [...]