He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry has finally arrived on Broadway in a brand-new musical. Centered around the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, and created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.
The book by the incredible playwright Lynn Nottage is an embarrassment. With forced and heavy-handed dialog, most of the impetus for the story is from the faux questions from the reporter. At which we proceed to learn that Michael’s father Joseph (Devin Bowles) was a monster, physically and mentally abusing his kids and working them to the bone. And we learn this about him over and over and over again. All of this goes to paint MJ as a victim of his upbringing and attempts to justify any troublesome things he did himself, assuming we ever really talk about them at all. They portray him as a diva, perfectionist, child but when they try and talk about anything icky, they moonwalk past it as quickly as possible.
Leading the cast as MJ himself is Roman Banks. He gives a dynamic performance, successfully capturing the essence of the real Michael Jackson in terms of both physicality and vocals without ever coming across as an impersonation. Brandon Lee Harris and Josiah Benson (who went on at the performance I attended) both do a great job of portraying Middle Michael and Little Michael, respectively. I found Mary Kate Moore to be charismatic as Rachel, the reporter who interviews MJ during the making of his Dangerous tour. Anastasia Talley gives heartfelt work as Michael’s mom, Katherine Jackson.
2022 | Broadway |
Original Broadway Production Broadway |
2023 | US Tour |
North American Tour US Tour |
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