Award-Winning “MJ” Excites, Inspires & Takes Musical Theatre to New Heights
When MJ The Musical made its Denver debut on Wednesday, April 10, the Denver Center for Performing Arts’ (DCPA) Buell Theatre was transformed into a time machine, whipping the audience back in time through a 40-year musical catalog and reintroducing Michael Jackson — the greatest entertainer of all time. A day later, my face is still sore from smiling.
Everything about the performance is magnificent — from the uncanny portrayal of the “King of Pop” in various stages of his life, to the immaculately executed choreography which invites the audience to sing and dance along gleefully. The showmanship of the touring Broadway production is well-deserving of its 10 Tony Award nominations and 4 epic wins for Best Actor in a Musical, Best Choreography, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design.
MJ: The Musical is brought to life from the text of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Lynn Nottage, who wrote the “MJ” book and was quoted by the LA Times saying, “The soundtrack of my life is Michael Jackson’s music.” The breakout play, directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon explores the creative process of the musical genius as he prepares for the Dangerous World Tour, which grossed over $200 million from June 1992 to November 1993. Going beyond the singular vision of the iconic superstar, MJ evokes deeply nostalgic feelings of joy, and reminds us all why a young boy from Gary Indiana was eventually crowned the king of the pop music genre. Like Nottage, people of all ages and from all walks of life can relate to Jackson’s phenomenal creations as the soundtrack to our lives.
The musical is best described as bittersweet. While it invites us to revisit Jackson as a uniquely talented entertainment mastermind whose musical prowess created global hysteria, it also explores the shadowy background details which were largely unknown to critics and fans alike. For all of his success, Jackson was a man with a presumably sordid past; rumored family affairs and disreputable headlines later in his life left fractures in public opinion. For those who watched his evolution from a six year old child star in The Jackson 5 to his solo career, his imperfections added to the mystery behind the man.
MJ gives a glimpse into the inner workings of Jackson’s mind as he challenges himself and his cast of Dangerous World Tour dancers and stagehands. Known for his stringent performance standards, the opportunity to see him engage with those around him is a special treat. Yet, as incredible as it is to witness Jackson’s genius, there is an underlying sadness lacing nearly every scene – he grapples with personal demons while struggling under the immense pressure of the tour and the price of fame. Beneath the surface excitement, the harrowing realization sets in that the beloved musician lost his life less than a decade after one of his most successful tours.
Nottage pieced together the story of Jackson’s life from the perspective of the media and recollections he shared over time. His storied childhood lays the foundation for a lifetime of striving for perfection, an act that crafted his childlike persona and imaginative worldview. With each flashback into his past, the audience gains a deeper understanding of his hardships, even as his career soared to new heights. At the pinnacle of success, the superstar is unable to see himself through the eyes of his fans – as a perfect, unrivaled giant.
The MJ cast truly brings this story to life.
Jackson is portrayed by different actors throughout the two and a half-hour performance, each representing different times in his life. The eldest version, played by Roman Banks, watches over his younger self — portrayed by Brandon Lee Harris, Josiah Benson and Bane Griffith — at every stage. The Jackson team of actors is superb. Their vocal range and energy are shockingly similar to the original; they are quick-witted and soft-spoken, with breathtaking endurance and poise. Each succeeds in bringing Jackson’s gentle spirit to life, making the audience fall in love all over again.
Devin Bowles, who interviewed on “Spectrum Talk with Ruby,” played an astonishing dual role as Rob, Jackson’s stage manager, and Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the musical Jackson family. Bowles flawless transitions into reenactments of Jackson’s infamous, domineering father are remarkable. “What we see is Joe and Michael’s relationship,” says Bowles. “We see the highs and lows; the peaks and valleys. We see all of that.”
While Joe’s incessant influence in the life of young Jackson is jarring, the script manages to humanize him, showing audiences the concern and intention that drove his hardened leadership and high expectations. Ultimately, this humanizes Jackson in turn.
The orchestra, directed by Victor Simonson, and lively dance cast filled the stage with excitement and perfectly timed fluidity, echoing the original troupe’s reputation for excellence.
Studio musician John Miller played bass for Jackson and other musical greats such as Madonna, BB King, Eric Clapton and Billy Joel, before bringing his expertise to the production as its Music Coordinator.
Global Associate Choreographer Michael Balderrama, and the Michael Jackson Movement group “Rich + Tone” – composed of brothers Rich and Tone Talauega – personally worked with Jackson during his tremendous career, and it’s clear that the quick pace and tight moves throughout the performance parallels the real deal. “They would tell stories about Michael – his work ethic and drive, and his perfectionist mental state. It’s just beautiful,” Bowles remarks.
The Tony Award-winning stage and lighting are befitting of a king. The creative light show resembles a concert stage, and the expertly designed backdrops transform the set into popular soundstages of yesteryear. Without giving away any spoilers, my favorite scene takes place just before intermission – the creative design is jaw-dropping.
As Dangerous World Tour preparations come to an end, the audience is reminded of the battles Jackson endured with mainstream media, his health and his unceasing desire to achieve greatness.
On June 25, 2009, Jackson took his final breaths, leaving a hole in the hearts of fans around the world. The entertainer was 50 years old, and in his lifetime he achieved greatness that will never be duplicated or forgotten. “We have the blessed opportunity to have a sort of authenticity around our creative process,” says Bowles, “Those who knew Michael and worked with him; I think it’s very special to have that connection.”
Jackson’s estate was involved in the production of the musical, a meaningful factor that takes the production to new heights with the knowledge that this portrayal is accepted and approved by those protecting the “King of Pop’s” affairs. MJ Producer John Branca began his music law representation of Jackson in 1980. Both he and Producer John McClain are co-executors and co-managers of the late entertainer’s estate.
The musical is appropriate for audience members of all ages, with DCPA recommending MJ for people ages 7 and up. The once-in-a-lifetime performance is well worth experiencing and embracing as you dance along to the infectious rhythm of every tune.
The loss of an iconic figure of Jackson’s magnitude was a shock to the world, but MJ refuses to let his legacy be forgotten. His childlike character; his desire to help others; his attention to crucial human rights and environmental issues; his love for his family; and his undeniable ability to entertain the world will forever be missed. MJ is a perfect memorialization and tribute to the “Man in the Mirror.”
Watch my interview with MJ’s Devin Bowles at https://youtu.be/i-hKT90Bf-8?si=3isQ6L1eZ0OQX9wj