Set during the rehearsals for Michael Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour in July 1992 MJ the Musical uses flashbacks to explore his life. This production masterfully weaves together Michael Jackson’s personal story… from his rise to fame to his many struggles and complex family and media relationships, with the timeless magic of his music. 

The show’s approach gives a detailed portrayal of Jackson’s difficult childhood and alleged abuse at the hands of his father. Rather than the serious allegations that plagued Jackson’s life and his relationships with minors (a tour producer noting that Jackson’s requests are getting out of control and a question about a family he’s bringing on tour is swiftly moved past).  And while there has been some criticism around that approach this reviewer didn’t find anything wrong with that. 

 From being hit as a child, to being publicly abused and ridiculed as a teenager going through puberty, Joe Jackson’s treatment of his son no doubt had a lifelong impact on the music icon.  However, it was beautiful to see Michael had a close relationship with his mother as seen through a heartfelt moment between the two.  Though reportedly inspired by his love of horror films, MJ the Musical even reimagines “Thriller” as Jackson attempts to stop being controlled by and escape from his father.  I found this part of the performance to be quite powerful and moving. 

Jackson himself is played by a total of six performers, who often appear on stage with each other. Brisbane-based newcomer Liam Damons (in his professional debut) plays the young Michael, struggling to establish his own identity separate from the Jackson Five, while Jackson as a child is played by Blaiyze Barksdale with William Bonner (or Cayden Dosoruth with Daniel Makunike, depending on which night you catch). In addition to tour producer Rob, Derrick Davis also portrays Joseph Jackson, Michael’s stern and abusive father. 

American actor Ilario Grant is simply incredible in the central role, and while his impersonation of Jackson’s voice and mannerisms are top notch, it’s the changeable quality he brings to the role that resonates. Liam Damons shone as Michael’s middle self, bringing infectious energy to the stage with his precise dance routines. Meanwhile young  Blaiyze Barksdale explosive performance as little MJ was outstanding, showcasing a true promise and talent. 

The ensemble, featuring standout talents like Loredo Malcolm and G Madison IV brought an electric energy to every scene, transforming the stage into a visual feast. 

The songs are absolutely incredible and as expected, the songbook here takes us through his greatest hits, from opening banger ‘Beat It’ with its sizzling Eddie Van Halen-crafted guitar solo, right through to Jackson Five classics such as ‘ABC’, ‘I Want You Back’, ‘Bad’, ‘Billie Jean’, and, of course, ‘Thriller’. 

Orchestrations and arrangements by David Holcenberg and Jason Michael Webb are clever and energetic, threading the rhythm of the music through the dialogue scenes – you hear a note from ‘Thriller’, for example, long before the actual number – and smoothing the transitions from dramatic scenes to set pieces. The set design by Derek McLane and lighting by Natasha Katz do a similarly nimble job – we got from the backstage chaos of rehearsal to the Jackson family’s working-class home and to the stage at a rapid clip – and while the dazzling lights and projections by Peter Nigrini hit the high notes, the dexterous transitions from the intimate to the epic are genuinely impressive. 

So, too, is the choreography by director Christopher Wheeldon, while the character of Jackson has a dedicated two-man team in the form of lauded choreographers Rich + Tone Talauega. Again, the flow is incredible, and the sense of motion is ever-present. We never get the sense that the show has stopped moving to drop some exposition on us; every movement is precise and meaningful, every gesture a part of the greater whole. The technical aspects of the musical are impressive, with elaborate sets, HD videos, and projections. 

Attending MJ the Musical in Melbourne was nothing short of spectacular and  is a must-see tribute that honors Michael Jackson’s legacy with stellar performances, innovative stagecraft, and a profoundly engaging narrative, especially vocally. It’s an experience that will leave you reflecting on MJ’s remarkable journey and the magic of his music, captivating both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

MJ the Musical is now playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne for tickets and more information visit mjthemusical.com.au 

x Steph