By centering on the music and the moves, MJ: The Musical becomes Chicago's newest hit
MJ: The Musical
THEATRE REVIEW
By Rudy Segovia
Headliner Chicago
THEATRE REVIEW
By Rudy Segovia
Headliner Chicago
Before social media dance challenges, Michael Jackson was the original viral dance inspiration. Whether it was moonwalking, defying gravity, or trying to copy his music video choreography, no one made a bigger impact than The King of Pop. Yet, his family & tabloid headlines were just as prevalent as his catalog of hit songs, and we get all of that in this show.
Let's talk about the star Roman Banks: from the first words spoken and first moments on stage, you actually feel like you're watching Michael Jackson. While some generations grew up watching Michael's every move, for some theater goers this might be their first time witnessing these stories, songs and moves on stage. That's something we have to remember, especially with the Dangerous tour, as Jackson gets ready to perform songs from his fourth solo album.
Let's talk about the star Roman Banks: from the first words spoken and first moments on stage, you actually feel like you're watching Michael Jackson. While some generations grew up watching Michael's every move, for some theater goers this might be their first time witnessing these stories, songs and moves on stage. That's something we have to remember, especially with the Dangerous tour, as Jackson gets ready to perform songs from his fourth solo album.
The stage production takes us in the moments leading up to Michael's Dangerous World Tour. As one of the biggest pop stars at the time, there is immense pressure to create something even bigger than anyone's wildest dreams. We also see the price and financial risks that he's willing to take to make this tour a success.
We get a tiny glimpse into The King of Pop's world, mainly from those who tried to get close to him or those who were too afraid to ask any questions. While we don't get any new insight into Michael's life, we do get an unbelievable recreation of iconic performances from Smooth Criminal to Billie Jean and a breath-taking interpretation of Thriller.
Having never been able to see Michael Jackson in concert, this feels like I'm transported back to the early 90's. One interesting omission in Michael's catalog of hits is Remember the Time from the Dangerous album. That track was one of the biggest of the albums. but also left off the Dangerous Tour, which is why we don't see it in MJ: The Musical.' Also, don't forget your sequin glove, fedora or red jacket, fans flocking to this show bring their best interpretation of Michael's looks to the shows.
We get a tiny glimpse into The King of Pop's world, mainly from those who tried to get close to him or those who were too afraid to ask any questions. While we don't get any new insight into Michael's life, we do get an unbelievable recreation of iconic performances from Smooth Criminal to Billie Jean and a breath-taking interpretation of Thriller.
Having never been able to see Michael Jackson in concert, this feels like I'm transported back to the early 90's. One interesting omission in Michael's catalog of hits is Remember the Time from the Dangerous album. That track was one of the biggest of the albums. but also left off the Dangerous Tour, which is why we don't see it in MJ: The Musical.' Also, don't forget your sequin glove, fedora or red jacket, fans flocking to this show bring their best interpretation of Michael's looks to the shows.
3.5 stars (out of four)
MJ: The Musical
Now Playing through September 2, 2023
James E. Nederlander Theatre
24 West Randolph Street
Chicago, Illinois 60601
www.broadwayinchicago.com
MJ: The Musical
Now Playing through September 2, 2023
James E. Nederlander Theatre
24 West Randolph Street
Chicago, Illinois 60601
www.broadwayinchicago.com