Photo by: Matthew Murphy
REVIEW ★★★★
Written by Pulitzer-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, the four-time Tony Award-winning touring production of ‘MJ The Musical’ now playing at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center through March 16, offers an electrifying homage to the King of Pop, delivering a performance that dazzles the audience. From the moment the lights dimmed and the unmistakable bassline of “Beat it” kicked in, MJ The Musical electrified the audience, transporting them into the high-stakes, high-energy world of Michael Jackson’s artistry. A thrilling spectacle of music and movement, this jukebox musical masterfully captures Jackson’s creative genius, anchored by a trio remarkable performances chronicling his evolution from child prodigy to global icon focusing on the pivotal days leading up to his 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Three Michaels – One Legendary Performer
Portraying Jackson at various stages of his life, Bane Griffith (Little Michael), Erik Hamilton (Michael) and Jordan Marcus (MJ) each brought their own authenticity to the role. Griffith delivered youthful exuberance and charisma in early Jackson 5 numbers like “ABC,” while Hamilton embodied the transition into Jackson’s solo superstardom with “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.”
The true standout of the night was Marcus, whose performance as MJ was nothing short of mesmerizing. His precision, his physicality and his uncanny ability to channel Jackson’s signature moves—pelvic thrusts, circle & side slide, gravity-defying leans and razor-sharp footwork—had the audience in awe.
A Behind-the Scenes Look at an Icon at Work
Framed around MTV’s exclusive two-day documentation of Jackson in the lead-up to his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, the show cleverly weaves together rehearsal footage, private moments and full-scale performances. The tension of Jackson’s relentless perfectionism is palpable, underscored in scenes where he classes with managers and choreographers in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
The musical journey begins with an exhilarating performance of “Beat It,” setting an energetic tone for the evening. The choreography, under the direction of Rich and Tone Talauega—renowned choreographers who worked closely with Jackson—captures the precision and flair defining his performances. The ensemble’s synchronization during this number was impeccable, reflecting the high energy and intricate dance routines that were synonymous with Jackson.
Act I delves into Jackson’s early years, with a medley of Jackson 5 hits like “The Love You Save,” “I Want You Back,” and “ABC,” performed with youthful exuberance by Little Michael and his brothers. The act closes with a powerful rendition of “Earth Song,” highlighting Jackson’s deep concern for environmental issues.
The production tip-toed around sensitive aspects of Jackson’s life, subtly addressing his abusive and strict upbringing under his father Joseph, his battle with vitiligo and the pressures leading to his dependency on painkillers—but it stops short of engaging with the full scope of his controversies. The show set in 1992, strategically sidesteps his later-life tabloid troubles and the allegations of child abuse, choosing instead to focus solely on his musical brilliance. While this approach preserves the celebratory tone of the production, it intentionally avoids presenting a more complete, nuanced picture of Jackson’s complex legacy.
Spectacular Choreography and Iconic Songs
Each act of MJ The Musical is framed by a powerhouse performance. In Act 1, the opening beats to “Beat It,” pulse through the theater. It is a high-energy, immersive explosion of synchronized movement instantly drawing the audience into the mind of a genius at work. The number captures the intensity of his rehearsal process, his demand for excellence and his deep investment in every step, beat and lyric.
Act II opens with “Billie Jean,” a show-stopping visual and technical spectacle, complete with Jackson’s legendary Moonwalk, toe stand and side-step executed flawlessly by Marcus and the ensemble. The number is a masterclass in tension and precision, with the stage bathed in cool blue and white lights, evoking the cinematic flair of Jackson’s short films.
The show closes with “Man in the Mirror,” an emotional finale stripping away the glitz and focuses on the man behind the music. As Marcus delivers the final verse, standing alone under a single spotlight, the moment is both powerful and bittersweet, a reminder of Jackson’s global impact and the enduring power of his music.
While MJ The Musical undeniably soars as a celebration of Jackson’s artistry, it also plays it safe, carefully curating a version of his life highlighting his genius while omitting some of his most defining controversies. Marcus is nothing short of extraordinary, capturing Jackson’s essence with uncanny precision and charisma. The production is a must-see for fans, offering a mesmerizing journey through one of the greatest musical legacies of all time, just don’t expect a deep dive into the complexities of the man behind the legend.
Squeeze Entertainment Magazine 