Unveiling the Enigmatic Circus of MJ: A Review of MJ the Musical

In the eerie realm where the legacy of Michael Jackson is relentlessly resurrected for profit, MJ the Musical emerges as a haunting exception to the norm. Despite the ongoing barrage of holographic spectacles, posthumous releases, and impending biopics, this stage production transcends the realm of mere exploitation, thanks in large part to the masterful storytelling of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage (known for works like "Sweat" and "Clyde’s"). Nottage's narrative peels back the layers of Jackson's late career, revealing it for the eerie circus it truly was.

While the musical sidesteps the direct confrontation of the disturbing allegations that continue to shadow Jackson's name, Nottage deftly navigates the complexities inherent in discussing such matters within the confines of a musical. Instead, she crafts a portrayal of Jackson during the tumultuous rehearsals for his extravagant 1992 Dangerous tour, refraining from depicting him as the infallible superhero he often appeared to be onstage.

Central to Nottage's narrative is the character of Rachel, an MTV documentarian struggling to unravel the enigma of Jackson's creative process amidst the carefully curated facade of his public persona. Through Rachel's lens, audiences are offered glimpses into Jackson's guarded private life, revealing the tortured artist behind the dazzling performances.

Nottage skillfully weaves Jackson's own songs into the fabric of the narrative, using them as windows into his psyche and the traumas that shaped him. Flashbacks to his harrowing childhood underscore the psychological scars inflicted by his father, Joseph, who wielded control over The Jackson 5 with the precision of a circus ringmaster. Even as Jackson achieves unprecedented success, the specter of his upbringing looms large, with his parents haunting the periphery of his fame like ghostly apparitions.

In the hands of director Christopher Wheeldon, the stage becomes a surreal dreamscape where past and present converge, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. Through this lens, MJ the Musical transcends the trappings of a conventional biopic, offering audiences a provocative exploration of the complexities of fame, trauma, and the enduring legacy of one of pop music's most enigmatic figures.

Unveiling the Enigmatic MJ: A Glimpse into the Spectacular Circus of Fame

In the surreal world of MJ the Musical, Myles Frost embodies the grown-up Michael Jackson with a mesmerizing, almost otherworldly grace. Whether effortlessly moonwalking across the stage, pulling playful pranks disguised as a janitor, or whimsically retaliating against his business manager with a water pistol, Frost's portrayal captures the essence of Jackson as the master of his own enigmatic circus.

Having endured the sacrifice of his childhood and physical health for the sake of someone else's dreams, this MJ is resolute in his refusal to compromise, regardless of the financial or moral ramifications. A breathtaking second act showcases Frost's prowess, as he seamlessly duets with dance legends like Fred Astaire and Bob Fosse, each step a testament to the steely perfectionism ingrained in his very being.

Every song in the production serves as a vessel for profound messages, with poignant scenes like MJ's family coercing him back onto the stage while singing "Money" highlighting the relentless pressures of fame and fortune. Even in the extravagant spectacle of "Thriller," Jackson is haunted by the ghosts of his past, symbolized by afro-wigged zombies reminiscent of his Motown upbringing.

Derek McLane's opulent set design and a stellar ensemble cast further elevate the production, capturing the boundless ambition of a singer who dared to reach for the stars. Yet amidst the glitz and glamour, reminders of Jackson's humanity linger, with subtle nods to the shadow of the abuse scandal that continues to haunt his legacy.

Despite the whirlwind of choreography and infectious energy that permeates the show, MJ the Musical doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of Jackson's overexploited stardom. As the Prince Edward Theatre plays host to this captivating journey, audiences are invited to ponder the complexities of fame, talent, and the enduring legacy of a musical icon.

In conclusion, MJ the Musical transcends the boundaries of a traditional stage production, offering audiences a captivating exploration of Michael Jackson's enigmatic persona and tumultuous journey through fame. With Myles Frost's mesmerizing portrayal at its helm, supported by stellar choreography, lavish set design, and a talented ensemble cast, the musical delves into the complexities of Jackson's life with both reverence and introspection. While the spectacle dazzles and entertains, it also prompts reflection on the human behind the icon, grappling with themes of sacrifice, ambition, and the enduring impact of one man's extraordinary legacy. As the curtains fall at the Prince Edward Theatre, MJ the Musical leaves an indelible impression, inviting audiences to ponder the profound and often haunting contradictions of fame and fortune in the world of pop music.