Five Reasons Why “MJ: The Musical" Will Have You Dancing in Your Seats
Written for: Time Out New York in association with MJ: The Musical
MJ brings Michael Jackson’s unparalleled artistry front and center in this four-time Tony Award-winning blockbuster, with eight electrifying performances a week at the Neil Simon Theatre. Following the making of the King of Pop’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour, get a behind-the-scenes look at the shows that almost never happened.
Created by Tony Award-winning director and choreographer, Christopher Wheeldon, and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, Lynn Nottage—MJ transcends the boundaries of traditional Broadway and celebrates the creative process and signature spirit that established Jackson as a household legend. Set against the backdrop of Jackson’s thrilling performances, the show expertly revives an era that still transfixes music lovers of every age today.
No other musical on the Broadway embodies a story, or an artist, that is as timeless and generation-spanning as Michael Jackson. But if you’re still thinking about witnessing this phenomenal show, here are five reasons why you should stop thinking and start warming up your moves because MJ on Broadway will turn you into a dancing machine.
CAPTIVATING CHOREOGRAPHY
Christopher Wheeldon's Tony Award-winning choreography is nothing short of a kinetic fusion of precision, passion and innovation. All of Jackson’s iconic moves are brought back to life with depth, authenticity and the contemporary flair that Wheeldon has become internationally renowned for. From the moonwalk to the toe stand to the zombie strut (and, yes, even the robot and toaster lift), MJ captivates with each and every step, spin and glide. Whether you were there in person for the Dangerous World Tour in 1992, or this is your first time feeling the explosive energy of Beat It live, prepare yourself for the theatrical performance of a lifetime from everyone on stage.
LEGENDARY SOUNDTRACK
When the lights dim and the first musical notes echo through the theater, there’s no escaping the immediate build of anticipation that follows. From the infectious beat of Smooth Criminal to the soulful melody of Keep the Faith, MJ is a mesmerizing journey through the record-breaking albums in Jackson’s illustrious career. And in the city that never sleeps, there’s nothing more exhilarating than hearing these hits live once more, performed with the heart that only Broadway has to offer.
POWERHOUSE PRODUCTION
Only the finest creative minds on Broadway could bring Michael Jackson’s essence to life, and that’s exactly the team that MJ has assembled. Helmed by set designer, Derek McLane, lighting designer, Natasha Katz and projection designer, Peter Nigiri, the musical’s production design instantly immerses audiences in a world as visually stunning as Jackson’s music videos. McLane’s dynamic scenic design and Nigiri’s mesmerizing projections seamlessly transition along with the rollercoaster of Jackson’s career, from an unsuspecting dance studio to the pulsating rush of a stadium stage. All the while, Katz's lighting design bathes each scene in a kaleidoscope of colors.
ACCLAIMED BLOCKBUSTER
Can you feel it (yet)? The Tony Awards speak for themselves. MJ was nominated for 10 Tony Awards, ultimately winning in four categories for Best Performance by a Leading Actor (Myles Frost as MJ), Best Choreography (Christopher Wheeldon), Best Sound Design (Gareth Owen) and Best Lighting Design (Natasha Katz). The original Broadway cast recording also earned a coveted Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
With masterful execution at every performance, MJ not only entertains audiences of all ages but also unites generations of music lovers—whether you grew up with The Ed Sullivan Show, MTV or TikTok. From the genesis of Jackson's iconic hits to the evolution of his groundbreaking performances, the show emerges as a testament to his music’s enduring appeal. As you exit the Neil Simon Theatre, you will leave echoing Jackson himself: “Now I believe in miracles, and a miracle has happened tonight.”
5/15/24
