When it comes to great Broadway musicals, MJ the Musical is a “Thriller!”
When we got our tickets to see MJ The Musical, we didn’t really know what to expect. Growing up as “Xennials” Michael Jackson was always making headlines when we were kids and was at the height of his career. This musical addresses MJ’s success, struggles, the mystique that surrounded him, as well as the constant rumors that were circulating in the media at the time.
MJ The Musical picks up as Michael and his team are putting the final touches on his “Dangerous” tour, and uses flashbacks to tell the story of how he went from a kid from Gary, Indiana to “The King of Pop.” The show does this using the greatest hits from his catalog, phenomenal choreography, and stunning visuals!
After seeing it on opening night, we think it might just be our favorite show we’ve seen in Birmingham so far! (And that is saying a LOT!) From the very opening number, you are transported to the chaotic life of a successful pop star who is still struggling to achieve perfection even after multiple Grammys and Platinum Albums. The show begs the question, “when is enough enough?” when it comes to trying to please your fans, and “heal the world” at the expense of your own physical, mental, and financial well being.
I had the pleasure of speaking with two of the cast members from the show, Melvin Gray Jr. (MJ Alternate, U/S Michael) and Rachel Lockhart (Suzanne de Passe/Ensemble). I was amazed at how much energy and enthusiasm both Melvin and Rachel had after seeing them give one of the most physically challenging performances I’ve ever watched.
Rachel is a Birmingham native and an Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) alumni who grew up in her mom’s dance studio here in Birmingham. Melvin has been with the show for almost a year and does an incredible job at portraying younger Michael Jackson as MJ navigates the changes and challenges in his life.
Both actors said that this is the most challenging and physically demanding show they’ve ever been a part of. It was great hearing their perspectives on how the show approaches the legacy of Michael Jackson. Melvin said of the show, “from the jump, immediately, this is a train that does not stop,” and he is absolutely right! From the first number to the final bow, this show is raw energy that pulls you in and will even have you dancing in your seat to your favorite MJ song!
I asked Rachel about how ambitious this production is, and she told me that she has “seven to ten” costume changes during the show! Not only are the costumes fantastic, the choreography is mind blowing, and the lighting effects make you feel like you are at a show on one of MJ’s tours! You’ll be blown away by the visual effects and smooth transitions between scenes and characters.
MJ The Musical doesn’t try to be a fluff piece, nor is it an exposé. It delves into MJ as a person who is doing their best to reach their full potential and to make a difference in the world all while constantly battling doubts and insecurities. It’s a story of someone who kept faith in themselves and refused to cut corners even when friends, family, and business partners advised him to pull back for his own well being.
None of this story could be properly told without MJ’s legendary music and this show doesn’t hold back. I was amazed at just how much of his catalog was incorporated into the show! You’ll hear hits like, “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal”, “Man in the Mirror,” and “Thriller”! Melvin Gray Jr does a particularly great job with “Human Nature” as well.
Amber and I can’t recommend this show enough! Do yourself a favor and go see MJ The Musical while it’s playing at the BJCC Concert Hall this week in Birmingham! It will leave you excited, energized, and inspired!
