MJ the Musical
Rating: ★★★★★
Venue: Prince Edward Theatre, London
Cast: Jamaal Fields Green, Ashley Zhangazha, Mitchell Zhangazha, Philippa Stefani, Phebe Edwards, Matt Mills, Rohan Pinnock-Hamilton, Matt Gonsalves and Jon Tsouras
MJ tells the turbulent story behind the one-gloved global sensation as he prepares for his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, offering a rare look behind the “Man in the Mirror.” See Jamaal Fields Green as the pop legend after his stint in the role in the US.
Creating a musical using the back catalogue of one of the most famous and celebrated musicians in history is no small task, but MJ the Musical is a beast of a show that showcases the iconic music of Michael Jackson in a thoughtful and visually stunning way.
Winner of four Tony Awards in 2022 before transferring to the West End last year, MJ the Musical combines the vision of multiple first-class creatives to create pure theatrical magic on stage, largely thanks to Derek McLane's incredible set design and Paul Tazewell's memorable costume design. Christopher Wheeldon's clever direction and stunning choreography bring MJ to life, representing the moments and signature moves that Michael was famous for, including moonwalking and the robot.
This marries perfectly with Lynn Nottage's thought-provoking book, aiming to give audiences a glimpse behind the ‘Man in the Mirror’, as Michael Jackson prepares for the Dangerous World Tour in 1992 and reluctantly allows MTV reporters (brilliantly played at this performance by Philippa Stefani and Christopher Gopaul) to film the rehearsal process.
Setting the scene in 1992 is a wise choice that avoids the need to explore the child sexual abuse allegations that followed one year later. Separating the man from the music is one of the biggest challenges for audiences and Michael fans, but MJ the Musical doesn't seek to ignore the complexities of such a troubled performer. Primarily, it celebrates his musical legacy while we reminisce on the songs we all grew up with. It is worth highlighting the careful selection of these songs, all chosen to further the story, rather than cram as many MJ hits in as possible, which some jukebox musicals have a tendency to do.
As Michael looks back on his life, we are cleverly transported back in time to hear hits from the Jackson 5, as well as his early solo career collaborating with Quincy Jones (Rohan Pinnock-Hamilton). It becomes clear that Michael was heavily influenced, and also traumatised, by his perfectionist and controlling father, who is expertly played by Ashley Zhangazha. Always nuanced with his portrayal, it is testament to his versatility as an actor how he seamlessly transitions from playing Michael's father Joseph to his tour manager Rob throughout the show.
Michael Jackson himself is played by three actors depending on the stage of his life. Little Michael was brought to life by Jaydon Eastman, a star in the making and with all the confidence of someone double his age. Mitchell Zhangazha delivers a standout performance as teenage Middle Michael, oozing Michael's charisma with his dance moves and velvety smooth vocals.
There's a new MJ in town, with the show expertly led by the brilliant Jamaal Fields-Green, who joins fresh from playing MJ on the US Tour. Jamaal does an outstanding job, embodying Michael and his artistic genius, while maintaining a more sensitive side to MJ as he relives the childhood memories that haunted and shaped him. Jamaal's performance is a theatrical masterclass, paying homage to Michael the musician with his effortless stage presence, vocals and dance moves.
In fact, the entire cast are simply phenomenal - a number of swings were performing on gala night, showcasing the vital role that swings play in keeping shows going and bringing fresh, exciting takes to each character. The company tackles Michael’s iconic routines and greatest hits with ease and Olympic stamina to create a truly stunning visual spectacle. 'Thriller' and 'Smooth Criminal' alone are worth the ticket price with their jaw-dropping visuals and choreography.
Put simply, MJ the Musical honours Michael Jackson as the greatest showman, offering unbeatable entertainment and one of the best nights out on the West End right now.
You can book tickets to MJ the Musical, here.
Review by Vickie
**photo credit: Storyhouse PR**
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