The West End’s brightest star is coming home — and she’s bringing powerhouse vocals, commanding stage presence, and all the glamour of a true diva.

Filipina-British theater actress Christine Allado is set to headline the Manila staging of The Bodyguard: The Musical as Rachel Marron, the iconic role made famous by Whitney Houston. The production opens this September 2025, marking the inaugural presentation at the new Rockwell Proscenium Theater and the latest offering from 9 Works Theatrical.

Dubbed the “Queen of the Night” for this much-anticipated run, Allado’s casting is a full-circle moment for the internationally acclaimed performer. Though based in London, where she made a name for herself in Hamilton and In The Heights, Christine’s Filipino roots run deep — and her return to the Manila stage is a major win for local theater fans.

The Bodyguard: The Musical is directed by seasoned theater visionary Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome. Adapted from the 1992 film starring Houston and Kevin Costner, the musical features a thrilling mix of romance, suspense, and the beloved soundtrack that defined a generation — including “I Will Always Love You,” “Run to You,” and “I Have Nothing.”

Christine Allado’s impressive résumé includes playing dual roles of Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in the West End production of Hamilton: An American Musical and leading as Vanessa in In The Heights, both by Lin-Manuel Miranda. She also starred as Maria in the BBC’s 60th-anniversary special of West Side Story, Jasmine in Hallmark’s Royal Hearts, and most recently in The Prince of Egypt at the Dominion Theatre, earning a Grammy nomination for the original cast recording.

Outside of the theater, Christine gained national recognition when she performed the Philippine national anthem for Manny Pacquiao’s world title bout against Jeff Horn — a moment that resonated deeply with Filipinos worldwide.

As The Bodyguard: The Musical prepares to open its doors this September, Christine Allado’s homecoming isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s about making history. With her inimitable talent and global pedigree, she’s ready to captivate local audiences and reaffirm her place among the most celebrated Filipino talents of her generation.