NYWIFT Blog

By Tammy Reese

Broadway’s Tony Award Winning hit, MJ The Musical, is a pure masterpiece filled with music and dance along with fun and heartfelt moments. A tribute to the late icon Michael Jackson, but more so a profound theater experience that displayed the late global superstar in such a humane way. The story surrounded Michael’s behind the scenes moments preparing for his epic Dangerous Tour. The show included tons of flashback moments from his childhood, his teenage years, and young adulthood transitioning from being in a group with his brothers to becoming a solo artist which led to him winning eight Grammys in one night for the Thriller album.

Each set and costume change, each dance segment, each song, and each performer were captivating to witness. Elijah Rhea Johnson took on the role of Michael Jackson in a way that made me feel as if I literally was watching Michael Jackson perform. Elijah mastered Michael’s speaking and singing voice as well as his movements. Elijah owned the Neil Simon Theatre along with that role which is so perfect for him. The other two actors who portrayed Michael during different eras were brilliantly cast too! The ensemble cast moved in and out of different characters and scenes so seamlessly and told this story with their entire being.

I highly recommend everyone to witness the genius of MJ The Musical. Brace yourself for tears, happiness, laughs, smiles, love, fun, and jamming.

When I asked a fellow audience member Greg Qualles of Billy Blunt Magazine his thoughts on the show he stated: “Broadway has a wonderful family musical on its hands. MJ The Musical is so important for current times. The musical highlights American music and African American music to the world of sharing love and happiness. It also shows Michael Jackson growing up and beginning part of it.” 

The play gave the audience a very unique experience of the Jackson family’s pure talent. The music and dancing touched the attendees to sing and dance with the musical. The cast perfectly acted the feelings of being in the decades of 1960, 1970, and 1980. Simply a must see for all age groups.

MJ The Musical continued to keep my attention. The musical seemed to guide the audience into the mind and journey of MJ. The play answered so many of the why’s and how’s of the legend. The actors brought life to each moment on stage and allowed the audience to be a part of the magic. 

Learn more about MJ The Musical by visiting mjthemusical.com.