Volume #22 | Michael Jackson and the magic of theatre.
Reflections on MJ The Musical.
‘All you need is the will to want it and a little self-esteem.’
- Michael Jackson
Isn’t it wild how one fleeting decision can lead to an experience that leaves such a lasting imprint?
In a rare burst of spontaneity, I jumped at the chance to meet my husband on an overseas business trip. A little wanderlust and time to myself was going to do me the world of good. The timing was last minute, yet perfect. By no means did I ever think London would be on my agenda for 2025, but for once, I let my inner voice empower me.
I can do this, I can make it happen.
I dived into travel planning and at the top of my list was a theatre date night in London’s famous West End. We decided to stay in Leichester Square and it wasn’t long after booking our hotel that we grabbed tickets to see MJ The Musical. I was confident in my show choice. A musical about Michael Jackson, one of my all time favourite artists, and it has won four Tony Awards? I’m in!
Centred around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, and created by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and Tony Award®-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star to offer a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.
- MJ The Musical Official Website
Theatre Magic
There I was, the second night of my week-long fling with the UK, walking hand in hand with hubby to Prince Edward Theatre. Pinch me. You could not wipe the smile off my face. We found our seats in the dress circle and I admired the gorgeous 100 year old building with its lavish sky lights and auditorium. This venue originated as a theatre, before it became a casino and cinema for several decades. It was returned to its former stage glory in the 1970’s, hosting some of the longest running and award winning musicals ever since.
The theatre was considerably packed for a Monday evening. A transparent curtain draped down in front of the fully lit stage. It wasn’t long before we could see the cast enter sporadically to begin their performance, in a scene that appears to be a rehearsal studio. All the while, the house lights were on and some audience members were still finding their seats. Although it was an unusual way to kick things off, I loved it. When it comes to musicals, usually it’s a dramatic entrance with house lights down and silence before the introduction of the first act, but MJ was different. Immediately, I felt the anticipation building.
It wasn’t long before the auditorium darkened, the curtain lifted and the show opened. Michael Jackson’s character entered the scene and there was a resounding cheer from the audience. Cue ‘Beat It’. MJ The Musical had arrived.
I believe in miracles, and a miracle has happened tonight.
This show is phenomenal.
I was stunned, emotional and on cloud nine.
It’s two and a half hours of spectacular, high-energy showmanship telling Michael Jackson’s compelling story. There were wow moments which transcended reality, where I felt as if I was watching Michael Jackson himself performing. His iconic styling coupled with his signature moves had me thinking “it’s really him!”
It was authentic without being overdone, and highly entertaining. It features all the hits you’d expect, and clever medleys too. I didn’t want it to end.
What has stuck with me the most is the careful positioning of each song within the storytelling of the show. I walked away with a new appreciation for Michael Jackson’s musical craftsmanship and choreography, his music videos and world tours. How groundbreakaing they were for their time. The lead characters are captivating, particularly MJ (played by André Phipps) who channels his passion and love for creating iconic music and performances.
At the end of the show, I was overcome with joy but I also felt a sense of emptiness. A longing for the man himself who is, sadly, no longer moonwalking this earth.
For the next few days, the only music I listened to was by Michael Jackson. I’ve been reminiscing ever since.
Highlights
The choreography is the best I’ve ever seen, and perhaps it’s because dance is a focus for almost every member of the ensemble. MJ The Musical was awarded ‘Best Choreography in a Musical’ at the UK’s Olivier Awards. The dancers bring the beat to life. Their portrayal of emotion through movement proves a deep understanding of the magic of Michael Jackson.
‘Beat It’ is the opening song and sets the temperature for the entire show. There’s something special about that guitar riff. Hot, extremely hot.
In an impressive display of versatility, cast members take on multiple roles and swiftly swap from one character to another. The actor who plays Joseph Jackson (Michael’s father) and also the character of Rob, is remarkable at this (played by Matt Mills). From the way he moves to the way he zips his jumper up and down, he transforms completely between roles within a second.
‘I’ll Be There’ is the most beautiful duet between the characters of Michael Jackson and his mother, Katherine (played by Koko Alexandra). Stunning! Tears were rolling down my face. This is the most impressive vocal of the show.
In The Jackson 5 scenes, audiences are treated to a medley of Soul Train and Motown eras where the staging and costumes are electric. The children who play Michael and especially Mitchell Zhangazha, who plays Michael as a young adult, are enthralling. This is where we see the talent of the broader cast and it’s here that everyone shines.
‘Thriller’ is an unexpected treat. Young MJ sings a spine-tingling a cappella version which leads into the song as we know it. This will live rent free in my mind forever! It comes at a poignant moment in the show where we begin to understand Michael’s relationship with his father.
‘Smooth Criminal’ is one of my favourite songs of MJ’s performance. Not only does it meet expectations with its rocket fuelled sound, but the lighting in this number is next level. Lighting directors, I appreciate you!
You need to see this musical.
If you love Michael Jackson’s music, if dancing ignites you, if you never got to see him perform live or perhaps you’re too young to know his story the way it deserves to be told. Maybe your only reason to see this musical is because I told you so!
Buy the tickets, book the flights. Life is too short not to experience this performance.
Tickets
MJ The Musical is now showing in Sydney: https://mjthemusical.com.au/tickets/sydney/
The waitlist is open for Melbourne, playing from September 2025: https://mjthemusical.com.au/tickets/melbourne/
I’m praying it comes to Adelaide!
*All photos were sourced from MJ The Musical media gallery.
