Australian performer Adam Garcia, best known for starring in the 2000 film Coyote Ugly, is set to return to Wales as part of the UK and Ireland tour of The Bodyguard. He will play Frank Farmer at the Wales Millennium Centre from July 20 to July 25, 2026.
Rowdy Nights at Coyote Ugly Cardiff
Garcia shared a story about a cast party at Cardiff's Coyote Ugly bar following the first night of his Irish dance show Emerald Storm. He described the bar as getting “rowdy,” adding, “Boy does it get rowdy. But that's kind of what you want.” Joking about whether he would dance on the bar like Tyra Banks in the film, Garcia said, “They rarely let guys up there, but I do have the privilege to be able to say that I have been allowed up on the bar to shake. Not quite like Tyra Banks, because no one can, but at least my impression.”
Return to Wales
Garcia expressed his love for Wales, stating, “I always love coming to Wales… I find Cardiff very good food for the soul. It's got good people. It's got good times. The audiences are always really enthusiastic.” He also noted similarities between Wales and his birthplace of New South Wales, Australia, citing coastline, forests, and hills.
Taking on the Role of Frank Farmer
Garcia admitted to nerves about playing the role originated by Kevin Costner in the 1992 film. He said, “I'm nervous before every role to be honest, but I found this one interesting because he's so still, which is a really hard thing to play in theatre.” He deliberately avoided rewatching the movie to give his own take, noting that the stage script has been slightly adapted.
Unlike many musical roles, Garcia's part in The Bodyguard is primarily acting, with no singing or dancing. He described it as “an acting piece for me… I stand there with a gun.” He credited director Mick Jackson, who also directed the original film, for helping him find the right balance on stage.
Praise for Co-Star Sidonie Smith
Garcia praised his leading lady Sidonie Smith, who plays Rachel Marron, for her nightly performances of Whitney Houston classics like “I Will Always Love You.” He called it “a feat of pure athleticism and talent” and admitted he often just sits back and watches, saying, “I am not the star of this show and nor should I be.”
Additional Tour Dates
Garcia will also tour his Irish dance and urban tap show Emerald Storm in Llandudno and Wrexham later in 2026. The Bodyguard runs at the Wales Millennium Centre from July 20 to July 25.
