Reminds Us Why Live Performance Matters
There are moments in theatre when the line between performance and presence dissolves—when you forget you’re watching a show and instead feel as though you’ve stepped into someone’s world. That’s what happened inside Toronto’s CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre last night, where MJ the Musical pulsed with energy, nostalgia, and pure artistry.
The show, part of Mirvish’s 2025/26 subscription season, tells the story of Michael Jackson preparing for his 1992 Dangerous World Tour. But rather than a jukebox tribute, it’s a portrait of creative obsession—the relentless drive of a man chasing perfection even as those around him plead for compromise.
From my seat in Row Q, centre floor, I could feel the electricity hum through the crowd. People leaned forward, clapped mid-scene, and—during the show’s most exhilarating numbers—some even danced discreetly in their seats.
A Masterful Slow Build
The production doesn’t rush to its crescendos. It begins quietly, backstage, where a film crew interviews Jackson (played with uncanny precision by Jordan Markus) as he and his team rehearse for the upcoming tour. The dialogue is soft, deliberate, intimate. Markus captures Jackson’s distinctive voice—the gentle inflection, the childlike curiosity, the almost hesitant cadence that makes every word feel both fragile and powerful.
As the story unfolds, the rehearsal space becomes a gateway into Jackson’s memory. We’re transported to the Motown 25 stage, the Thriller video shoot, and the moments of private reflection that reveal both his brilliance and vulnerability. Each musical number builds on the last, from quiet introspection to near-cosmic release.
By the time the band hits the opening notes of Billie Jean, the theatre has transformed. The lights flash, the choreography snaps, and the audience erupts. The applause stretches long enough that Markus—embodying Jackson’s humility—has to pause, smile, and wait before continuing.
Breaking the Fourth Wall and Building Connection
What sets MJ the Musical apart is its ability to make the audience part of the creative process. Jackson frequently turns outward, addressing the film crew—or, by extension, us—as if inviting us into his headspace. We’re no longer spectators but confidants, witnessing his perfectionism, insecurities, and the immense weight of expectation.
This narrative choice works brilliantly. It’s one thing to see a performer recreate iconic choreography; it’s another to feel as though you’re in the room as it’s being invented.
From a technical standpoint, Christopher Wheeldon’s direction and choreography are seamless, moving fluidly between realism and dreamscape. Natasha Katz’s lighting design paints the stage with memory and momentum.
When Art and Life Collide
The show doesn’t shy away from the cost of genius. Jackson’s need to innovate drives him to make late-night changes to the setlist, costumes, and lighting—pushing deadlines, budgets, and patience. His team warns him that his beloved Neverland Ranch has been remortgaged to cover expenses, but he presses on, believing the work itself will transcend the cost.
That drive proved prophetic. The real Dangerous World Tour, launched in 1992, became one of the most successful concert tours of all time, raising millions for children and environmental causes through the Heal the World Foundation. What began as financial risk turned into a philanthropic triumph—a fact that adds emotional weight to the musical’s final moments.
The Thriller Moment (And a Bit of Trivia You’ll Love)
It’s no spoiler to say that Thriller arrives not once, but twice—each version distinct in tone and impact. The second is a full-blown theatrical spectacle, complete with the iconic red leather jacket that has become one of pop culture’s most recognizable garments.
Here’s a delightful piece of trivia: Thriller was directed by John Landis, and its costume—yes, that jacket—was designed by his wife, Deborah Nadoolman Landis, both members of the Genius 100 Visionary Community, which I’m proud to help lead as Executive Director of the Genius 100 Foundation. Deborah once told me that the black trim across the back of the jacket forms the letter M. It’s a hidden homage to Michael himself—a subtle detail you’ll never unsee once you know it.
That fusion of art and intimacy perfectly mirrors the essence of MJ the Musical: craftsmanship elevated by personal touch.
The Performances That Bring It to Life
Markus is mesmerizing as adult MJ, balancing technical precision with emotional nuance. His moonwalks glide, his spins defy gravity, and his voice channels that unmistakable blend of tenderness and conviction. Melvin Gray Jr., his alternate, and the younger actors Quentin Blanton Jr. and Bryce A. Holmes (as the Little Michaels) ensure every stage of Jackson’s life feels authentic and continuous.
The ensemble—each dancer, singer, and instrumentalist—matches his energy beat for beat. The orchestra, led by Nathanael Wilkerson, keeps the heartbeat of the show pulsing while Katz’s lighting and Paul Tazewell’s costumes transport us from Motown to modernity.
It’s worth noting that the Toronto engagement features the full touring production, managed by Juniper Street Productions with the same creative team that brought the Broadway hit to life. Everything, from set changes to sound design, operates at Broadway calibre.
The Afterglow of Live Theatre
When the curtain fell, the audience didn’t rush out. They lingered—some laughing, some wiping tears, all buzzing with the afterglow only live performance can generate. Outside on Yonge Street, groups gathered to compare favourite numbers. I walked to my car and said, “Hey Siri, play Michael Jackson Essentials.” Siri chose the Thriller album. It felt like the perfect encore.
Why This Matters Now
We live in an age of streaming and scrolling—where art often feels disposable and attention fleeting. MJ the Musicalreminds us that nothing compares to the immediacy of live theatre. You can feel the collective heartbeat of the audience, sense the breath of the performer, and witness moments that will never be replicated exactly the same way again.
For those who never saw Michael Jackson perform live, this show offers a glimpse of what it must have felt like—to experience the energy, precision, and spirit that defined him. For those who did, it’s a revival of joy and memory, a reminder of how music once united millions under one rhythm.
Practical Details for Would-Be Travellers
The Toronto run of MJ the Musical continues for just three more weeks and is almost sold out. I was fortunate to attend through an invitation from Broadway Inbound and their Canadian representatives Vox Media International, who work with travel industry professionals to bring theatre experiences to audiences worldwide.
If you missed out on Toronto tickets, don’t worry—this is a touring production. You can see where it’s headed next or catch it on Broadway in New York City, where performances continue to draw standing ovations nightly. Visit Mirvish.com or MJtheMusical.com for tour dates and ticket links.
The Takeaway
MJ the Musical is more than a tribute—it’s a testament to artistic pursuit, resilience, and the unifying power of music. It’s about a man who demanded excellence not for ego, but for connection.
As the lights dimmed and the audience rose for a final standing ovation, I thought about how art—when done with heart—has the power to remind us who we are and what we share. Whether you grew up with his records or discovered him on a playlist, you’ll leave the theatre feeling both nostalgic and newly inspired.
Because in the end, MJ the Musical isn’t just about Michael Jackson. It’s about every one of us chasing our own version of Thriller—something timeless, something that moves the world, even if just for a beat.
MJ Musical Production Photo Credits: Matthew Murphy
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet.
Safe and mindful travels!