In a seismic collaboration with the Estate of Michael Jackson, the Pantages Theatre pulsates with the resplendent energy of “MJ,” a mesmerizing musical unveiling the enigmatic life of the King of Pop. With its ambitious narrative, this production steers through the meteoric rise, complex controversies, and deeply poignant moments of the musical luminary’s life.

At its core, “MJ” transcends the mere portrayal of a musical icon. It serves as a reflective prism, deftly threading the peaks Jackson’s power with the tempestuous shadows haunting his psyche. Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, Lynn Nottage’s introspective book masterfully navigates through the complexities, from the tumultuous childhood marked by paternal tyranny to the relentless pursuit of perfection that ultimately threatened to dismantle both the artist and his sanctuary, Neverland. It crystallizes the age-old, precarious balance between artistic ambition and personal jeopardy, painting a poignant portrait of a star on the precipice of greatness and vulnerability. As we dive into the pivotal 1992 Dangerous World Tour rehearsals, the audience is granted an unprecedented glimpse behind the mythical curtain, courtesy of fictional MTV documentarian, Rachel, and her cameraman Alejandro. This ingenious narrative device peels back the layers, unraveling the man behind the legendary myth.

“An awe-inspiring spectacle…Magnetic storytelling, combined with powerhouse performances”

Christopher Wheeldon’s direction and choreography breathe life into MJ’s world with uncanny perfection. However, the true soul of “MJ” resides in its stellar cast. Roman Banks’s portrayal of Michael Jackson is nothing short of transcendental. He effortlessly channels MJ’s essence with an eerie authenticity that transcends mimicry. Josiah Benson and Brandon Lee Harris artfully embody the child and young-adult Michael, respectively, their performances pulsating with raw emotion and poignant vulnerability. Devin Bowles, a mercurial force onstage, encapsulates the domineering presence of his father, Joseph Jackson and seamlessly transitions into the character of Rob, the tour manager, showcasing a virtuosic talent that is nothing short of genius.

The technical prowess of “MJ” is an awe-inspiring spectacle. Derek McLane’s sets, Natasha Katz’s lighting, Peter Nigrini’s projections, Paul Tazewell’s era-spanning costumes, Charles G. LaPointe’s transformative wigs, Joe Dulude II’s makeup, and David Holcenberg’s musical arrangements converge into a symphony of visual and auditory splendor. The orchestra, under the baton of Victor Simonson, elevates the production to a crescendo of perfection. The standout brilliance of “MJ” lies not just in the predictable anthems but in the unexpected numbers, notably the poignant rendition of “She’s Out Of My Life,” stirring emotions in unexpected ways. “MJ” leaves an indelible mark, transcending the confines of a traditional jukebox musical. Its magnetic storytelling, combined with powerhouse performances and technical wizardry, elicited two standing ovations mid-show, and a thunderous final one at the conclusion — an homage fitting for the indelible legacy of the King of Pop.

— G. Dhalla

“MJ” plays at the Pantages Theatre through January 28th. Tickets HERE