I am a lifelong fan of Michael Jackson. A put-on-a-performance-of-Thriller-for-my-parents-in-the-kitchen fan of Michael Jackson. Not to be dramatic, but one of the great sadnesses of my life is that I will never get to experience MJ in concert. To feel his presence, to breathe his air. But I’ll tell you what, last night, I got pretty damn close.
MJ The Musical opened its Australian tour tonight at the Sydney Lyric Theatre after a Tony Award-winning run on Broadway and huge global success. (I attended the reviewers’ evening last night on 7 March.) MJ The Musical is set during the final two days of rehearsal before the Dangerous World Tour and celebrates the undeniable artistic legacy of Michael Jackson. This show is pure spectacle, and when laid out like this, it’s hard to not feel overwhelmed by the genuine genius of Jackson’s mind. He was a visionary. A true artist. This production ensures that his spirit remains alive on stage.
This iteration brings together an unbelievable creative team of international and homegrown talent.
Let’s start with Aussie up-and-comer Liam Damons. Before booking the role of Michael, he had little more than a high school credit to his name. But he is living proof that some people just have it in their bones. His musicality, his presence, his talent. He’s unbelievable. And I guarantee this is far from the last we will see of him. So, I think it’s probably important to get tickets now; then when he becomes a household name, you’ll have bragging rights.
But it wasn’t just Damons. Every iteration of Michael Jackson is phenomenal. William Bonner as Little Michael is a joy. He brings youth, innocence and raw talent that will actually melt your heart.
As MJ, Roman Banks is spectacular. So much so that I have few eloquent words for what I bore witness to. It was inexplicable and completely experiential. You have to see it with your own eyes. He approaches the role with such reverence and gives so generously. His performance is completely embodied. Far from imitation, it felt more like Banks’ body in service of Michael’s truth. Like two artists in synchronicity.
Every single member of the cast is so truthful and earnest and filled with genuine joy. There is just so much heart to this show. I think that’s because it was created by people who truly love Michael Jackson, for people who share that same devotion.
Writer Lynn Nottage is a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright. Once you see MJ, you’ll find this absolutely checks out. The script is lyrical brilliance. There is a musicality to her authorial voice that makes the dialogue sing. It is truly unbelievable that this is her first endeavour into the world of musical theatre.
Similarly, her co-creator, Director and Choreographer, Christopher Wheeldon had only mounted one musical prior. Yet he has crafted movement that is nothing short of genius. His work is dynamic, powerful, and exceptionally executed. It blends unmistakable theatricality with Jackson’s distinct style.
The musical team was tasked with reinterpreting and reimagining forty of the most beloved and iconic songs of all time. A shiver runs down my spine at the mere thought of such an impossible ask. Yet they succeeded in a way that is both soul-stirring and narratively seamless. The music does not simply replicate Michael’s hits; it breathes new life into them.
Every single element sang. The scenic design by Derek McLane was so transformative and all-consuming. The set is in total harmony with the dazzling costuming of Oscar award-winning designer Paul Tazewell.
MJ The Musical is a triumph—a spectacular homage to one of the greatest artists of all time. It is almost impossible to ignore the various allegations and controversies that have been associated with this artist for the better part of the last 30 years. If you are looking for an interrogation or exposé of Michael the man, please know that this is not it. This is a celebration of Michael the artist. And I think that there is room for both.
As a lifelong fan, I was always going to love MJ The Musical. So I suppose this gushing review is completely biased. However, I am almost certain you will agree. If you have ever been moved by Michael Jackson’s music, or even if you just want a little extra joy in your life right now, go and see this show.
The Australian premiere of MJ the Musical runs until 22 June at Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pyrama Road Pyrmont NSW 2009.
Tickets on sale now via Ticketmaster.
Website: https://mjthemusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/mjthemusicalau/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
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