If you're ready to be transported into the life of legendary pop star Michael Jackson, then you need to get tickets to see the musical ' MJ' at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall.
From the moment Actor Jordan Markus steps on the stage as Michael Jackson, his performance in the musical is electrifying as he embodies Jackson's persona and many of his iconic dance moves. If you never had the chance to see the real musical icon this may be as close as you'll ever get as the pop star's life was cut short.
However, if you're going to see a Michael Jackson concert, this show is truly much more than that. Although it is considered a jukebox musical, it offers a glimpse into Michael's troubled life from his youth up until his 1992 worldwide "Dangerous" tour, 17 years before his tragic death.
While the show glosses over much of the controversy and scandal that plagued his career it does give the audience an insight into some of the agony his father Joseph Jackson created for the family and his demand for Michael to be perfect, a matter that grips Michael's preparation for his second of three world tours. However the show is truly a focus on Jackson's artistry and musical legacy.
I can't say enough good about actor Jordan Markus as he is utterly mesmerizing and gives chills throughout the show while nailing some stand out hits including Billie Jean, Don't Stop Till You Get Enough and of course Thriller to name just a few of the nearly 40 songs performed by the 2 ½ hour show. His performance is much more than an imitation but rather a true work of art, even his soft speaking voice sounded like the legend. As an audience member I had to remind myself that is not Michael Jackson on stage.
The stage is, at times, simple but extremely effective, with the ability to add to the spectacle's atmosphere, and the choreography is beyond amazing with a truly talented cast of singers and dancers. The costume design is another element that adds authenticity to the show as we see many of the iconic outfits Jackson wore.
A shout-out should also be given to the other two actors who portray Michael. Actor Bane Griffith never missed a beat as little Michael, which revealed the singer in the 1970s when he was part of the Jackson 5. Actor Erik Hamiton was phenomenal portraying the singer of the 1980s who burst onto the charts as a solo superstar and struggled to leave his brothers behind and build his legacy but always with the shadow of his father in the background, and the show does a great job of creating those flashbacks.
If Jackson's life, music, or dance style ever intrigued you, I would strongly recommend seeing this performance before it leaves Southwest Florida. The audience on opening night quickly jumped to their feet for thunderous applause, and once word got out about how good it was, I predicted most shows would likely sell. I suggest you "Ease on Down the Road" to get a seat at Barbara B. Mann by calling the Box Office at 239-481-4849 or buy them online at bbmannpah.com
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