IT seems like the world and his wife has seen The Bodyguard film, everyone except me.

So I went into watching the musical version with no preconceptions, just a loose idea of the story and ready to hear some of pop’s most iconic songs.

What I was not prepared for was to be blown away and absolutely mesmerised by Alexandra Burke’s stunning and powerful voice.

It takes a talented singer to take on some of Whitney Houston’s biggest songs but The X Factor winner does it with apparent ease, while putting her own stamp on the role.

The musical is based on the 1992 romantic thriller starring Houston and Kevin Costner.

It tells the story of former Secret Service agent, Frank Farmer, who is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge but what they don't expect is to fall in love.

I’m told the musical version, inevitably, deviates somewhat from the film version (I shall be watching it soon to find out for myself).

All the hit songs are in there – I Will Always Love You, I’m Every Woman, I Have Nothing, Run to You and Queen of the Night – plus many more, cleverly weaved into the story.

The whole production is slick and sassy, with Burke exuding the attitude of a diva while Melissa James also impresses as gentle sister, Nicki.

Stuart Reid, as Frank Farmer, is authoritative and strong as the bodyguard protecting the pop megastar from The Stalker, portrayed in a genuinely creepy way by Mike Denman.

I am sure I’m not the only one who left the Palace Theatre last night highly entertained and singing (badly) to the tunes from the show.

A must-see for fans of the film, Whitney’s iconic songs or musicals in general. Get down to The Palace Theatre, Manchester, before Saturday, January 9 – I’ve got a film to watch.