The Man in the Mirror: A Tribute to Michael Jackson by entertainers Review
Written by Hollie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
This production includes flashing lights
The entertainers deliver this tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, at De Montfort Hall in Leicester with their "Man in the Mirror" production as part of a wider UK tour. From the outset, the main man, CJ, showcases a polished performance throughout, and it is clear that he is a skilled and experienced performer. He has toured the world with this production for the past fifteen years.
CJ performs the different eras of Michael Jackson’s singing career and sings many of his famous hits, such as ‘Smooth Criminal’ and ‘Black and White.’ The live band were absolutely fantastic at bringing the beats and rhythm of Jackson’s famous songs to the forefront of each performance. The band members played the songs with energy and enthusiasm alongside the skilled backing dancers, who provided enthusiasm throughout each performance.
CJ’s ability to moon dance across the stage as well as perform the mannerisms and movements of Michael Jackson has to be celebrated, and he received cheers and hee hee hees in response from the crowd.
You can feel the suspense and excitement building towards the interval where he performs a fantastic amalgamation of Jackson 5 songs, including ‘Shake your body’ and ‘Can’t stop till you get enough.’
Audience members could feel the crescendo building and were all looking forward to his most famous hits in the second half. Comments in the lobby during the interval suggested that people were thoroughly enjoying the show and having a great time. The audience of families, couples and children was thoroughly enjoying the show. I noted that many audience members were dressed up in classic Michael Jackson outfits, which added to the overall atmosphere.
The audience did appear a bit restless at times, but were clearly waiting for his most famous hits ‘Billie Jean,’ ‘Thriller’ and ‘Bad’, which all received tremendous applause. CJ was able to hold the crowd and engage with his audience throughout the evening, and he delivered some important messages towards the end of the show. This performance at De Montfort Hall was a sold-out performance and many of his future performances are also sold out further along during the tour.
If you wish to ‘dance the night away’ and ‘paint the town’, then I would highly recommend this lively production which provides you with a broad range of Michael Jackson’s most loved chart hits.
This production continues to show across the country with upcoming shows at New Theatre in Cardiff on May 7th, Glasgow Pavilion on May 22nd and Harrogate Theatre on July 10th before concluding at Churchill Theatre in Bromley on August 17th.
If you are looking for other tribute acts at De Montfort Hall in the near future, then be sure to check out Fastlove, A Tribute to George Michael on Thursday 12th June 2025, The Simon & Garfunkel Story on Wednesday 18th June 2025 and The Elvis Tribute artist World Tour on Sunday 12th October 2025.
★★★★★
