In the history of pop music, few figures loom as large or cast as long a shadow as Michael Jackson. Known universally as the ‘King of Pop,’ Jackson’s life and career were marked by unparalleled success, profound influence, and a distinct style that continues to resonate worldwide even after his passing. His music touched hearts around the globe and influenced artists everywhere. Today, his legacy lives on, not only through his recordings but also through MJ: The Musical, a jukebox Broadway show that pays homage to his extraordinary life.
MJ: The Musical is a loving tribute to one of the greatest entertainers the world has ever known. It is a spectacular celebration of Jackson’s life, artistry, and the global impact of his music. The show is an intimate look into the life of a man who captured the world’s attention with his talent and charisma. It is about his creative process, his journey in life and in the music industry, and, most importantly, about his humanity.
The conception of MJ on Broadway
The decision to bring Michael Jackson’s story to Broadway was not made lightly. It was born out of a deep desire to honor the legacy of an artist whose influence transcends pop music. The process of translating Jackson’s life and music onto the Broadway stage demanded a meticulous approach, a keen eye for detail, and above all, a profound respect for the man and his artistry.
Key to the fruition of this project was the assembly of a team whose combined talents could do justice to Jackson’s extraordinary legacy. Heading the project is Christopher Wheeldon, a director known for his innovative vision and knack for storytelling. Wheeldon received a TonyⓇ for his choreography in MJ, and his directorial expertise has been instrumental in shaping a narrative that is as engaging as it is respectful.
Equally important is the contribution of Lynn Nottage (Ruined, Sweat), who penned the book for MJ. Nottage remains the only woman to receive the Pulitzer Prize two times. Her empathetic and nuanced writing has allowed for a depiction of Jackson that goes beyond his public persona to explore the individual behind the icon, his struggles, and his values. Together, this powerhouse team has created a Broadway experience that captures the magic and essence of the ‘King of Pop.’
The Storyline
MJ provides an overview of Jackson’s life from child prodigy to global superstar. The plot revolves around the creative process behind Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour, a period that allows for glimpses into the various aspects of his life, his challenges, and his breakthroughs.
The depiction of Michael Jackson’s life on stage is a blend of biographical storytelling and complex numbers built upon his legendary choreography and songs. Throughout the show, you will hear compositions from albums like Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, and many more.
Three talented actors share the task of portraying Jackson at different stages of his life. Young Michael is currently portrayed by an incredibly talented child actor Bane Griffith (Abbott Elementary), whose performance captures the childish nature and innocence of Jackson’s early years with the Jackson 5. The teenage version of the future ‘King’ is being played by Tavon Olds-Sample (Watch What Happens Live). And the demanding role of the adult Michael is currently portrayed by singer, actor, and dancer Elijah Johnson (Misguided Behaviour, Cass). Johnson is no stranger to Broadway as he played the role of Simba in The Lion King at just nine years old; his stage presence, charisma, and experience complement the role of MJ perfectly. What’s more, he has been a Jackson fan since early childhood, so it is a real full-circle moment for the twenty-four-year-old performer.
Through their performances, the show paints a multi-dimensional portrait of a man who was as complex and intriguing off-stage as he was on stage. The show’s narrative, combined with its spectacular performances, offers a profoundly engaging and authentic depiction of Michael Jackson’s life and legacy.
The Score
The music is the pulsating heart of this piece, featuring some of the most iconic songs from Michael Jackson’s vast catalog. The show includes classics like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Man in The Mirror,” and many other tracks spanning the Victory Tour along with Bad and Dangerous eras.
The musical arrangements in MJ meticulously capture Jackson’s unique sound and style. The show’s orchestrations deftly replicate the eclectic mix of pop, rock, soul, and R&B that characterized Jackson’s music, as orchestrated by Jason Michael Webb and David Holcenberg. At the same time, the vocal performances echo Jackson’s distinctive vocal stylings, from his piercing falsetto to his powerful belts. The choreography, too, is a stunning homage to Jackson’s innovative dance moves, including the legendary moonwalk.
The actors do not merely parody all of those elements but uniquely interpret them. Elijah Johnson said in an interview with PIX11 News that the “Thriller” section of the show is one of his favorites. Even though the choreography of this number is very particular, he gets to dance and act more like himself, giving his personal interpretation of the influence Michael had on his life.
The Choreography
Dance was an integral aspect of Michael Jackson’s performances, playing a pivotal role in his journey to becoming the ‘Pop Royalty’ he remains to this day. His innovative moves, like the gravity-defying lean in “Smooth Criminal,” have become cultural phenomena, loved and imitated by fans worldwide.
MJ, in its aim for authenticity, recreates these iconic dance moves with precision and flair. The choreography captures the spirit and energy of Jackson’s original performances, offering audiences a taste of the electrifying spectacle that was a Michael Jackson concert. The show’s dance ensemble executes these intricate routines with professionalism and passion that pay tribute to Jackson’s commitment to his craft.
The choreography in MJ is not just visually stunning; it is a critical element of the show’s storytelling. The dance sequences punctuate the narrative, highlighting moments of triumph, struggle, and resilience in Jackson’s life. They reflect the range of emotions that Jackson experienced throughout his career, from the joyous exuberance of his early success to the intense pressure of his later years.
Connecting with the Global Audience
Michael Jackson’s story and music hold a universal appeal that transcends geographic boundaries, cultural differences, and generational gaps. His life journey, marked by an immense passion for art, is a demonstration of the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and reach extraordinary heights. This narrative resonates deeply with audiences worldwide, as it encapsulates shared human themes of hardship, aspiration, and success.
His music, a groundbreaking fusion of pop, rock, soul, and R&B, with the addition of his own distinctive style, has a timeless quality that continues to captivate listeners across the globe. Jackson’s songs, often imbued with messages of love, unity, and social consciousness, speak to universal themes that touch the human heart. Lyrics in hits like “Heal the World,” “Earth Song,” “We are the World,” and “Man in the Mirror” echo messages of peace and personal growth for the greater future of everyone, sentiments that are commonly understood and appreciated.
Conclusion
MJ is an extraordinary tribute to Michel Jackson, capturing the essence of his life and legacy with a deftness and respect that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As mentioned, it seems like his story found a perfect place to be told – on Broadway. This show brings to life the man behind the legend, offering audiences a chance to experience his journey in a way they never seen it before.
For fans of Michael Jackson and lovers of great theatre, MJ is a must-see. It is an opportunity to relive the magic of Jackson’s music and witness the extraordinary talent that made him a global icon and makes this show a hit.