MJ the Musical Takes Centre Stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre and can only be described, as a “THRILLER”!
Last night, the curtain rose on a spectacular new chapter in theatrical history with the opening of ‘MJ the Musical’ at Her Majesty’s Theatre. The audience, including theatre royalty, celebrities, and media, leapt to their feet not once, not twice, but three times, showering the stage with standing ovations that echoed the excitement and admiration for the artistry unfolding before them.
At the heart of this dazzling production is the phenomenal Ilario Grant, whose portrayal of the legendary Michael Jackson is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment the lights dimmed and the opening scene of “Bad” burst forth, it was clear that Grant embodies not just the likeness of the King of Pop but also his spirit. His movements, reminiscent of Jackson’s iconic dance style, mesmerised the audience, transporting them back to the electrifying performances that defined a generation. But it is in the hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Thriller” where Grant truly shines, showcasing his remarkable talent as both a dancer and a vocalist.
Under the visionary direction and choreography of Christopher Wheeldon, the dance sequences are expertly crafted, capturing the essence of Jackson’s genius. Wheeldon has nailed every beat, every step, and every moment, ensuring that the choreography is not just a tribute but a celebration of Jackson’s legacy.
The narrative of ‘MJ the Musical’ is as compelling as its performances. It chronicles Jackson’s journey as he embarks on the ambitious endeavour of producing his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, all while grappling with the immense financial pressures and his philanthropic commitments. The story poignantly reveals the complexities of his life, beginning with the formation of the Jackson 5 and the shadow of his father, Joe, whose tyrannical control left lasting scars throughout Michael’s life.
As the plot unfolds, we meet Liam Damons, who portrays a middle-aged Michael, bridging the narrative between different stages of Jackson’s life. The heart of the story lies in the candid interviews conducted by journalist Rachel, who, accompanied by her cameraman, seeks to uncover the truth behind the music. In a poignant moment, Michael shares that the answers to his life’s struggles are woven into his songs. As I then tuned into the lyrics, I couldn’t help but this was this about Michael’s father Joe Jackson.
One of the most powerful scenes depicts the infamous 1984 Pepsi commercial incident, where Michael’s hair catches fire. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of his painful journey with addiction when he is prescribed pain killers and told to get on performing. It is through these layers of storytelling that ‘MJ the Musical’ goes beyond mere entertainment, inviting audiences to connect with the human experience of one of the most iconic figures in music history.
With 25 of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits seamlessly woven into the narrative, the musical is a celebration of his artistry and a tribute to his legend. As the musical comes to an end with a rendition of ‘Man in the Mirror’, you can’t help but be moved, and filled with a renewed appreciation for the man who changed music forever. This production will go down in history as one of the most spectacular of all, from the stage sets to the costumes, musical direction, choreography, and cast. It’s a “THRILLER’.
By Melinda Sullivan
Thank you to Michael Cassel https://michaelcassel.com/ & Good Humans PR
Photography Supplied
For more information please visit https://mjthemusical.com.au/
