Music
Rowdy crowd brings ‘The Bodyguard’ musical to an early end
A recent performance of ‘The Bodyguard’ was cut short in the U.K..
‘The Bodyguard’ is a stage musical adaptation of the 1992 film of the same name. With a book by Alexander Dinelaris and a score featuring songs by Whitney Houston, the musical premiered in 2012 in London’s West End and has seen several productions across the world since.
Currently, ‘The Bodyguard’ is touring throughout the U.K. and Ireland where a recent performance at Manchester’s Palace Theatre was cut short 10 minutes early due to a rowdy crowd.
What happened?
Towards the end of the show, two women started a countdown before the finale and “started to project themselves”, according to audience member Karl Bradley, by attempting to hit the song’s high notes, which they couldn’t.
Musical theater performances are not concerts and it’s customary for audience members not to sing along.
“We ask that customers are considerate towards the cast, fellow audience members, and theater team so that everyone can enjoy the wonderful entertainment on stage,” a representative for the venue told the BBC.
They created such a ruckus that actress Melody Thornton’s microphone as well as the lights were shut off mid-performance as security staff were forced to escort the two women off the premises.
Manchester Police were also called on scene.
Thornton apologizes
Thornton took to her Instagram story to issue an apology to those in attendance.
“I wanted to send a really special message to people in Manchester who came to the show tonight to say thank you so much,” Thornton said.
“I respect that you paid your money and I am so grateful to everyone who respects the people on stage who want to give you a beautiful show.
“I fought really hard,” she continued. “It feels awful. I just hope that we see you again. ‘The Bodyguard’ is a great show. It’s a wonderful story – a love story – and I know people were out to see just a really beautiful show, and I thank everyone who was respectful of the performers and very, very sorry for those who weren’t.
“I hope that we see you soon.”