Australian Idol star and pop singer Paulini Curuenavuli, better known as Paulini, has been tapped for the lead role in the Australian premiere of The Bodyguard. The role will mark her musical theatre debut.
The show will begin performances at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre on April 22, 2017. The singer told Australia’s Daily Telegraph that despite it being her first stage musical, she feels prepared to take on the role. “It is only going to make me a better performer. People might be shocked but it isn’t too far from what I do already,” she commented. “I love Whitney and sing her songs in my set so it makes sense.”
The Bodyguard musical, a stage version of the celebrated 1992 film that starred the late Whitney Houston, features the singer’s music, and a book by Oscar winner Alexander Dinelaris. It is based on Lawrence Kasdan’s script, with direction by Thea Sharrock.
The show is currently playing a national tour throughout the U.S., and will play the Paper Mill Playhouse from November 25 through January 1, 2017. It is also currently being revived on the West End.
Scroll through photos of the West End revival starring Beverley Knight, below:
