Photo credit: www.billboard.com
Prince Jackson made a notable appearance in Sydney over the weekend to celebrate MJ the Musical, a Tony Award-winning show that showcases the remarkable career of his father, Michael Jackson.
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The oldest son of the late pop icon attended the Australian premiere of the musical, held at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre on Saturday. Dressed in a dark pinstripe suit with a purple tie, he graciously embraced this celebration of his father’s artistic legacy.
Following its international acclaim, which includes successful runs in Broadway, London, and Germany, the musical invites audiences into the world of Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour from 1992. It offers an insider’s view of not only Jackson’s famous dance moves and songs but also his unyielding artistic drive and the hurdles he faced behind the scenes.
Producer Michael Cassel, who introduced MJ to Australia along with the show’s original Broadway producers, expressed his amazement at the audience’s enthusiasm. “While I thought Australian audiences would embrace this remarkable show, I never anticipated the level of passion they would demonstrate! From fans in costumes to the audience dancing in their seats, this show has truly resonated with Sydney,” he remarked.
Roman Banks leads the cast with a portrayal that has garnered critical acclaim throughout his performances in the U.S., where he first took on the role in Chicago in 2023 and has since performed it over 200 times.
Prince Jackson has consistently shown support for MJ the Musical, which premiered on Broadway in 2022. In March 2024, he attended a preview night in London with his siblings, Paris and Bigi Jackson, as they continue to honor their father’s remarkable legacy.
In a notable appearance at the 2022 Tony Awards, where MJ the Musical was nominated for several accolades, including Best Musical, Prince and Paris featured in introducing the cast’s performance of Smooth Criminal. Reflecting on their father’s love for musical theatre, Prince stated, “Many might believe our dad revolutionized popular music. And who are we to argue with that? However, it is less known that he had a profound affection for musicals, both on stage and in film.”
After receiving accolades in New York, the musical is now expanding its reach to London’s West End, embarking on a national tour in the U.S., and currently performing in Australia, where it will continue to tour to other cities.
Michael Jackson’s legacy endures as one of the most influential figures in music history, renowned for his record-breaking achievements, including the best-selling album of all time, Thriller, and 13 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. His innovative performances, music videos, and iconic dance moves significantly shaped the landscape of pop music and earned him the title of the “King of Pop.”
Prince Jackson actively contributes to preserving his father’s memory, regularly attending commemorative events and sharing insights from his childhood. Together with his siblings, he engages in charitable endeavors and music-related initiatives, ensuring that Michael Jackson’s influence continues to inspire future generations.
With MJ the Musical making strides globally, it is evident that the allure of Michael Jackson’s music continues to enchant audiences, decades after his indelible impact on the industry. Celebrated for achieving 13 No. 1 singles, having 30 songs in the top 10, and six albums topping the Billboard 200, his legacy remains a monumental force in the world of entertainment.
Tickets for MJ The Musical can be purchased at mjthemusical.com.au.
Source
www.billboard.com