MJ The Musical is at Playhouse Square, and I went to see it last night with Steph.
It might be the most fun I’ve had at a show since Hamilton.
MJ highlights the life of Michael Jackson..From the early years performing with The Jackson 5, to his solo career, to..well..everything that came after that.
Nothing ever gets too deep, and I both loved and did not love that aspect. You get the sense that his dad Joe was abusive. You get the sense that his mom Katherine was submissive. You get the sense his brothers were jealous, but that’s it. Nothing explored those relationships at all.
The story is told from the perspective of 1993 MJ as he is about to embark on the Dangerous World Tour. Through our 90’s Michael, he visits his childhood and teenage self..The moments in song are unforgettable.
Addressing the elephant in the room, there are no mention of any sexual allegations. There are numerous references to Michael being on pills at this time, but just like in real life, no one wanted to confront him in fear that their livelihoods would be affected.
But there are two reasons you came to the show, and that’s the music and dancing. There are numerous hits MJ The Musical goes through, along with some originals. This performance delivered on both accounts, and except for the actor’s height, I felt like I was watching Michael himself. The singing is done with the help of some back up singers and layered tracks, but you barely notice. This guy IS Michael Jackson.
The audience was noticeably quiet, and I found that odd. There were two people dancing in their seat, and of course me, but otherwise it seemed a bit subdued.
Make sure you stay to the very end. They do a bunch of crowd favorites that you’ll want to stand up and sing along with.
This is why we go see the shows at Playhouse Square, and if you’re even a mild Michael fan, you can’t help but appreciate the time spent at The KeyBank State Theatre.
MJ The Musical is playing through August 11th. Get tickets and more show info HERE