There are few artists in history who can truly be called once-in-a-generation. Michael Jackson was one of them — a global phenomenon whose artistry, innovation, and sheer brilliance redefined entertainment forever. Now, that legacy explodes back onto the stage in MJ The Musical, a production that is nothing short of spectacular.
Thursday night Opening night 1st of April at Queensland Performing Arts Centre, this multiple Tony Award®-winning musical got to captivate Brisbane audiences with its energy, emotion, and extraordinary craftsmanship.
Centred around the creation of Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour, MJ The Musical goes far beyond the iconic moves and unmistakable sound. It offers a rare and compelling insight into the creative genius and collaborative spirit that propelled Michael Jackson to legendary status.
From the moment the curtain rises, it is clear this production operates at an A-list level across every element. Under the masterful direction and choreography of Christopher Wheeldon, the show is a seamless fusion of movement, music, and storytelling. Paired with the powerful writing of Lynn Nottage, the narrative unfolds with both sensitivity and strength, revealing the complexities behind the icon.
What makes this production truly remarkable is its ability to balance spectacle with intimacy. The choreography is breathtaking, the staging is world-class, and the musical arrangements are executed with precision and power. Every detail has been considered, creating a show that doesn’t just entertain — it immerses.
And then there are the performances. The portrayal of Michael Jackson is shared with astonishing skill, with Ilario Grant and Liam Damons delivering standout performances that capture not only the physicality but the essence of the man himself. Alongside a cast of exceptional talent, they bring to life the many facets of Jackson — the performer, the perfectionist, the visionary, and the vulnerable human being beneath it all.
By the end of the performance, I was completely speechless — and that is not something I say lightly. Having seen countless musicals over the years, witnessing not one but two standing ovations during the show speaks volumes. It’s a testament to the emotional and artistic impact this production delivers.
There are moments of pure exhilaration, matched by deeply tender scenes that shed light on Jackson’s childhood, his immense pressures, and the undeniable “X factor” he possessed from the very beginning. The show does not shy away from the complexities of his life, yet it ultimately celebrates the brilliance he gave to the world.
Michael Jackson left behind a catalogue of music that continues to inspire, unite, and move generations. Like many geniuses, his life was cut tragically short, leaving fans around the world with a sense of loss that still lingers today.
But MJ The Musical ensures that his spirit lives on.
This is more than a musical — it is a powerful tribute, a celebration, and a reminder of the magic he created as a singer, dancer, and visionary. It captures the essence of an artist who changed the world and guarantees that he will never be forgotten.
A flawless production. A standing ovation in every sense.
MJ The Musical finishes its Brisbane season at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, on Sunday, 24 May 2026. The season, which showcases the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, runs from 27 March 2026 to 24 May 2026 before moving on to Perth. Tickets are currently on sale through QTIX.
Review Caroline Russo
