Melanie321
@Mellie4Justice
“Study the Greats” … A review of MJ the Musical
“Study the Greats and Become Greater,”that phrase greets you from the stage, as soon as you enter the theatre. The writings on the curtain are in Michael’s own handwriting and is copied directly from his notes. It demonstrates the essence of Michael Jackson and most importantly his humanity.
MJ the Musical is now in previews at the Neil Simon Theatre in New York City. Let’s get right to the point, the musical that I had the pleasure of attending the first night of previews, is nothing short of …BRILLIANT.
The excitement for Monday’s preview began on the street, where super fans, theatre aficionados and the curious gathered in a line that wrapped around the block and then some.
The story begins in 1992, as an adult MJ (Myles Frost) prepares for the historic DANGEROUS tour. We are treated to a stunning visual of MJ rehearsing with his singers and dancers. The story continues to the excitement of the Jackson 5 days, the Apollo theatre, and in the studio with Quincy Jones. Katherine Jackson is portrayed by Ayana George. Her duet with young Michael (Walter Russell 111) singing “I’ll be there” brought me to tears.
There are three actors portraying Michael in various stages of his life
(Walter Russell, Tavon Olds-Sample and making his Broadway debut, Myles Frost). Each one captures perfectly Michael’s spirit. It is evident that Frost is an emerging star and he brings to stage, a real Michael Jackson in all his glory. This performance is sure to be nominated for a Tony Award and he deserves to win.
Myles gives us a poignant portrayal of Michael showcasing his never-ending search for perfection, his drive to “Become Greater” and the challenges he faced along the way. Forget the tabloids, this musical gives us the real story of Michael.
Broadway veteran, Quentin Earl Darrington brings forth a Joseph Jackson that is real and yes, brutal. Fans of Joseph will not be pleased but I maintain it is a father and son relationship, that Michael himself described in numerous interviews.
Fans of Michael Jackson will be thrilled to know that many of Michael’s groundbreaking songs are included in this musical. As a New Yorker, I grew up attending many Broadway shows. I have never seen a show receive numerous (4) standing ovations throughout the performance. Yet, it happened during MJ the Musical. The finale had all of us up on our feet dancing and singing along. Even Michael’s iconic glove gets applause.
“Become Greater…”
MJ the Musical proves to everyone that MJ’s legacy is secure and his impact of being the greatest entertainer of our time or any other time is safe.
Cancel Michael? Well, that was never going to happen.
For the haters, Stay Pressed …you failed! Four standing ovations prove that.
I thank the cast and crew of bringing us a Michael we all deserve. This musical proves why Michael deserves respect.
Michael deserves the true story of his legacy to be told honestly and this musical achieves just that. This show is thrilling, poignant and a dazzling production.
I’ll be back to see it again and again.