MJ Review - Anya Panday

Paying homage to the King of Pop, "MJ The Musical" recently stepped out onto the Orpheum’s stage. Written by the remarkable Lynn Nottage, the musical is deeply complex and explores all facets of the famous singer's life. It’s a production that not only entertains but also provides a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.

The musical is set during the rehearsals for Jackson's 1992 Dangerous World Tour, a well-known period in his career. This framing device opens the audience’s eyes to the  behind-the-scenes pressures Jackson faced, while also showcasing his creative process and his relentless perfectionism. Through flashbacks, the show displays the defining moments of Jackson's life, from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his iconic stardom, capturing the evolution of his art.

One of the standout features of "MJ The Musical" is its choreography. Numbers like "Billie Jean," are brought to life with precision and charm, showcasing the extraordinary talent of the cast. The cast takes on the story with infectious energy, paying homage to the “MJ” style without falling into a repetitive pattern. 

The music, of course, is the star of the show. The soundtrack is a greatest hits compilation, featuring plenty of tunes from Jackson’s discography. Hits like "Man in the Mirror” are performed with a vitality that makes them feel like they just topped the charts. The orchestrations stay true to the original songs while also being mindful of the unique challenges and energy of live theater. The result is an experience that is both nostalgic and theatrical, keeping the audiences immersed in the retelling of Jackson’s story. 

The casting choices were both surprising and incredibly dynamic. Many actors doubled up on roles, which became a tool used by the show to propel the plot forward. Think Hamilton, but with more intentionality. Unlike Hamilton, though, the double casting was fluid throughout the show, rather than having actors play one character for each act. I particularly enjoyed David Bowles, who played both Jackson’s choreographer and his abusive dad, allowing the continuity of Jackson’s struggles and his music career to be fully demonstrated.  

"MJ The Musical" is primarily a celebration. Nottage is a talented writer, and she doesn’t shy away from many of the complexities of Jackson’s life. Despite this, the show is set in 1992. For those who don’t know, this is a year before the accusations against Jackson for child sexual abuse became public. For me, this was confusing. The show is framed as a hard-hitting piece on the complexities of the star’s life, yet it omits what may be the most complicated part of Jackson’s legacy. 

Ultimately, "MJ The Musical" is a dazzling, high-energy production that captures the magic of Jackson's legacy. It is a tribute to an artist who left a permanent mark in entertainment. While it has its moments of serious tones, it should not necessarily be marketed as a holistic look on the “MJ” persona.