“MJ The Musical” tells the story of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, whose legacy continues to inspire fans around the world. Although its Broadway opening was delayed due to the pandemic, the cast captured global attention by releasing a new video during lockdown. In this article, we take a closer look at that video, the production itself, and a few lesser-known facts about Michael Jackson’s extraordinary life.
About the new Broadway musical: MJ The Musical
As the title suggests, this production is a stage musical inspired by the life of Michael Jackson, the world’s greatest pop star known for “Thriller,” “Smooth Criminal,” and the documentary film “This Is It.”The show features more than 25 of his iconic hits, promising a musical experience that transcends language, culture, and generation—one that anyone can enjoy, no matter where they come from.
Does it explore the darker side of Michael Jackson?
While Michael Jackson remains one of the most celebrated artists of all time, his life was also surrounded by controversy. The 2019 documentary “Leaving Neverland” featured allegations from two men who claimed to have been abused at his Neverland Ranch. Even more than a decade after his passing in 2009, rumors of his supposed survival continue to circulate.
The preview footage highlights the cast’s dynamic choreography set to his greatest songs, but it remains to be seen whether the story focuses solely on his brilliance or delves into his personal struggles. Either way, this is a production no one will want to miss.
MJ The Musical rescheduled for September 2021
The show was originally set to open in July 2020, and many fans had already planned trips to New York around the premiere. However, the pandemic caused repeated postponements—first to March 2021, and then again to September 2021.
As a Broadway musical about the most successful pop star in history, expectations were sky-high, and news of another delay disappointed fans not only in New York but around the world.
The cast shared a special video during lockdown
To lift the spirits of fans awaiting the show’s debut, the cast of “MJ The Musical” released a video on YouTube on August 29—Michael Jackson’s birthday. Filmed individually by the performers at home, the clips were edited together into an upbeat performance that captures the essence of his music and dance. Watching it will make you want to move along to the rhythm.
MJ The Musical plays at the Neil Simon Theatre
“MJ The Musical” is performed at the Neil Simon Theatre, a historic Broadway venue that has hosted many legendary productions, including the revival of “Cats.”Located on West 52nd Street between 8th and 7th Avenues, the theatre is surrounded by classic New York spots such as Gallagher’s Steakhouse and the Gershwin Theatre, home to “Wicked.”
Fun fact: our At New York office is just a five-minute walk away, so if you ever need help finding the theater, feel free to stop by—we’ll be happy to guide you there.
If Michael Jackson were alive during the pandemic
Most people know “We Are the World,” the charity anthem co-written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, which sold more than 7.5 million copies in the United States.The song was created as part of the “U.S.A. for Africa” project to fight hunger in Africa, and all royalties were donated to charity. Over 35 years, the project has raised the equivalent of over 10 billion yen for humanitarian aid.
Michael Jackson was deeply committed to philanthropy, donating an estimated 50 billion yen to charitable causes during his lifetime and even receiving two Nobel Peace Prize nominations in recognition of his contributions.
If he were alive today, there’s no doubt he would be leading a global relief effort during the COVID-19 pandemic—perhaps something as powerful as Lady Gaga’s “One World” project. The release of “MJ The Musical” serves as a timely reminder of his lasting influence and compassion.
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