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.
While a jukebox musical, MJ played up a lot of the singer’s creative tenacity in getting the show just perfect. Many of the songs were used smartly to move the story forward. But the beauty of Jackson was the joy that his songs brought to the audience as the high energy numbers yieled huge applause and folks clapped or grooved in their seats to all the other songs. Banks’ moonwalk was spot-on and brought the house down. Perhaps that’s all what the audience wanted – to remember the time when Jackson’s talents were alive in this world – but MJ the Musical and this cast and crew delivered more than just the hits – they delivered magic.
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.
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