Broadway is home to shows that span genres and break boundaries. One of the musicals that has been making waves is MJ the Musical. The production is a tribute to the life and legacy of the iconic pop star Michael Jackson. It offers audiences a new perspective on his journey, from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his rise to global stardom. The show is a blend of music, dance, and drama, with many of Jackson's biggest hits featured in the score.
MJ the Musical: A Brief Background
MJ the Musical was initially announced in 2018, with a development period that faced its fair share of hurdles, including the global pandemic. It finally celebrated its Broadway opening at the Neil Simon Theatre in February 2022. The musical is brought to life under the direction of Tony Award® winner Christopher Wheeldon, with a book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage. The show provides a snapshot of Jackson’s creative process during the rehearsals for his 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
The role of Michael Jackson's music in the show is pivotal; after all, music was Jackson's medium, his language, and his legacy. The musical features over 25 of Jackson's biggest hits, each song used to highlight different aspects of his life and career. Jackson’s signature moves, from the moonwalk to the anti-gravity lean, are all featured in the show, adding a layer of authenticity to the performance.
"They Don't Really Care About Us": A Powerful Protest Song
Among the many memorable performances in MJ the Musical is "They Don't Really Care About Us." The song, released as part of Jackson's 1996 album HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, is a sharp commentary on social injustices. It was a departure from his usual pop sound, leaning more toward rock, and the lyrics starkly reflected the racial and societal issues of the time.
In the show, the song expresses Michael Jackson's profound desire to effect change and his frustration with societal apathy. In this scene, Michael is ushered by his friends, Rob and Nick, to a press conference downtown as he unveils his tour and tries to raise funds for his Heal the World Foundation. The press conference scene combines "They Don’t Care About Us" with another powerful anthem, “Earth Song.”
The choreography for this number is dynamic and impactful, with movements that reflect the song's defiant spirit. It is a tableau of energy and emotion, harnessing the raw power of Jackson's music and his message.
"Human Nature": A Moment of Reflection
Another show highlight is the performance of "Human Nature," a song from Jackson's 1982 album Thriller. Filled with ethereal synth lines and poignant lyrics, it showcases Jackson's softer, more introspective side. It's a song about curiosity, yearning for connection, and the simple, intrinsic facets of being human.
The song is cleverly woven into the plot, symbolizing Jackson's struggle with fame and his yearning for normalcy. When Rob attempts to distance a fictional reporter named Rachel from Michael, the King of Pop assumes the guise of a cleaner. It is in this disguise that Michael manages to connect with Rachel, revealing his need to don such a persona to escape the constant public scrutiny. The ensuing performance of "Human Nature" is not just a melodic recounting of Michael's yearning for normality but also a poignant exposition of his innate desire to connect on a human level, free from the shackles of stardom. Through this song, the audience is privy to a raw, vulnerable side of Michael, offering a deeper insight into the man behind the glittering glove.
"Stranger in Moscow": An Intimate Glimpse into Jackson's World
"Stranger in Moscow," from Jackson's 1995 album HIStory, is a hauntingly beautiful song about the feelings of loneliness and alienation. The song was reportedly inspired by a walk Jackson took in Moscow, during which he felt isolated and disconnected from the world around him.
In the show, "Stranger in Moscow" is presented as a poignant reflection of Jackson's inner turmoil. The staging captures the melancholy essence of the song with a stark, atmospheric set design and a moving solo performance. The song arrives at a moment in the show when Jackson grapples with the pressures of fame and the weight of public scrutiny.
"Thriller": A Spectacle of Energy and Creativity
No discussion about Michael Jackson's music would be complete without mentioning "Thriller." Released in 1983 as the title track of the world's best-selling album, “Thriller” is a fusion of pop and funk with a dash of cinematic horror. The song is synonymous with Jackson's approach to music and his unforgettable dance sequences.
"Thriller" is presented with the energy and excitement one would expect. The iconic dance sequence is recreated with precision, and the audience is transported into the world of the groundbreaking music video. The staging is elaborate, complete with atmospheric lighting and special effects. The song is interwoven into the narrative, performed by both Little Michael and adult MJ, as well as Joseph Jackson and the Ensemble.
The Choreography: A Reflection of the King of Pop
In MJ the Musical, choreography brings Jackson's music to life, paying tribute to his artistry while providing an engaging element that contributes to the power of the Broadway experience.
Experiencing MJ the Musical on Broadway offers an opportunity to witness the power of theatre, the best of Michael Jackson's music, and the sheer dynamism of his dance moves. This show is more than just a tribute to the King of Pop; it is a journey into his world, artistry, and legacy. Whether you're a die-hard Jackson fan or someone who appreciates theatre and music, MJ the Musical promises an experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
You can find the best tickets for MJ the Musical online through the Broadway Collection. They connect travelers to NYC with only the official ticket sellers, so you know you’re buying from the right place. Shows run from Tuesday to Sunday, with matinee performances three times a week. Group discounts are also available for groups of 10 or more through Broadway Inbound.