MJ The Musical at Prince Edward Theatre Review
Written by Eleanor V for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
This production contains theatrical smoke effects and flashing lights.
MJ The Musical covers the course of two days in the life of Michael Jackson, as the ‘King of Pop’ rehearses his set list for the upcoming Dangerous world tour of 1992, to coincide with the album release the previous year. As the audience are given a window into the rehearsal space, the show offers insight into MJ’s creative process and how striving for perfection effects both himself and those around him.
The musical as a whole is incredibly impressive with expensive set pieces and enthralling dance numbers. But as the show is set around someone who was famously guarded, I didn’t necessarily come away knowing more about the man at the centre of this story as style is somewhat favoured over substance.
MJ The Musical is, unsurprisingly, focused on the real life of Michael Jackson – a significant cultural figure who is instantly recognisable. From growing up with his overbearing father to the launch of his solo career, the narrative covers all this in relative depth while also touching on the issues and controversies which have plagued him. This larger story is uncovered for the audience through the characters of reporter Rachel (Philippa Stefani) and cameraman Alejandro (Fraser Stewart). Their filming for an MTV special allow Michael to divulge his story in a more effortless way and enabled the inclusion of some more imaginative elements. I particularly enjoyed how this allowed current MJ to connect with his past selves and how this was depicted on stage.
Derek McLane’s set design is incredible and elevated every musical number. Although it did not always add emotional depth to the story, it certainly has the wow factor! The way larger set pieces were introduced and removed for ‘Smooth Criminal’ was seamless and the use of screens for ‘Earth Song’ (designed by Peter Nigrini) was like nothing I have ever seen before.
Jamaal Fields-Green as MJ naturally has the most challenging role, portraying the most recognisable character. He was very impressive, both through his physicality and his speaking performance. His vocals were incredibly strong and never faltered, consistently bringing the house down. I was also struck by Lydia Sterling’s performance as MJ’s mother, particularly during her solo, and Mitchell Zhangazha as a younger Michael. But the standout for me was Matt Mills. He embodied the two important roles of Rob and Joseph Jackson, representing the authority in MJ’s life both in the present and the past. With minimal costume changes, his shifts in persona were seamless, and you could always tell which character was speaking, even during rapid transitions between the two.
Although the music is a key aspect of the show, the most impressive for me was the choreography. The whole ensemble is exceptionally talented, hitting every beat with precision. Jamaal Fields-Green captured the pop icon’s distinctive style and incorporated many of MJ’s signature moves which garnered particular applause from the audiences. Everyone was just mesmerising to watch.
As impressive as this production is, there were occasions where I felt certain songs were being included simply because it was expected, rather than because they actually serve the story. ‘Man in the Mirror’ and the full version of ‘Thriller’ stand out as examples of this. however well it was performed, and they were performed exceptionally, their inclusion feels somewhat forced. And although the setting within the rehearsal room felt intimate, I don’t think you ever really get to the private persona of MJ. Although his public image and music catalogue is what many audience members may attend for, I would have liked to delve into the darker topics a little deeper (such as his drug issued) or not to have them included at all.
MJ The Musical is a visually stunning production led by excellent performers. What it may lack in in-depth storytelling, it makes up for in spectacle – with high energy musical numbers and visually stunning set design in abundance. Any fan of Michael Jackson’s music is definitely in for an evening they won’t forget.
MJ The Musical is currently playing at the Prince Edward Theatre, with booking currently available until the 28th February 2026.
★★★★
