The Michael Jackson musical, MJ, has now been pencilled in to open in the West End in 2024 at the Prince Edward Theatre with performances beginning in March 2024.
MJ will focus on the creation of Michael Jackson’s 1992 'Dangerous World tour' and will see the singer revealing the key moments and memories that have come throughout his career and brings them to life.
After opening on Broadway in December 2021, MJ went on to scoop four Tony Awards, including one for Myles Frost as 'Best Actor in a Musical'. MJ features a story from Pulitzer Prize-winner Lynn Nottage, and choreography and direction by Christopher Wheeldon. The wider creative team behind MJ features sound design by Gareth Owen, costume design by Paul Tazewell, scenic design by Derek McLane, and lighting design by Natasha Katz.
Commenting on the London opening of MJ, Nottage commented: “As a Black musician and a pioneering voice in the music industry, Michael Jackson demanded inclusion, broke incredible barriers and in the process made indelible music that continues to resonate, delight and move listeners today. I am drawn to his complicated, singular and uncompromising creative process, and to understand where, why and how he made his music.”
The Michael Jackson musical, MJ, will feature some of the late artist’s most famous songs and includes hits by the Jackson 5 such as "I'll Be There," as well as Jackson's solo songs such “Human Nature,” “Billie Jean,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin.” and “Smooth Criminal.”
Casting for the London production of MJ will be announced at a later date.
As MJ will follow on from the previous and long-running Jukebox Michael Jackson musical Thriller-Live it is so far unclear how hungry the public's appetite will be for another musical revolving around the late singer? The Prince Edward Theatre is also a considerably larger venue than the Lyric Theatre which could mean that once the show comes on sale there is a possibility of finding value for those looking to secure lastminute theatre tickets and bargains. More information regarding ticket prices and availability will be announced in due course
The Prince Edward Theatre is a large West End theatre with three levels and a capacity of 1711 seats. Each section of the venue offers excellent overall views. Premium seats are situated in the Stalls section on the ground floor which is divided into blocks allowing for the best views in the theatre. The front of the Dress Circle, in rows B-D, seats 15-9 is also great for patrons who prefer to view the stage from an elevated position and is ideal for large-scale musicals.
Box seats are also located on every level of the venue which is ideal for patrons seeking a more intimate and private experience. The boxes in the Stalls level are located at the back and are slightly raised above the main seating area has four moveable chairs that ensure a clear view of the stage, barring a very slight restriction from the overhang from the Dress Circle. Value for money can be found in the boxes in the Grand Circle section, especially Grand Circle Box 1 which features its private bathroom which comes in very handy during the interval.
Loge seating in the Dress Circle is located at the front of the section on the sides of the auditorium. These seats are similar to a box and are semi-private and surrounded by a low wall, separate from the main seating area offering excellent and staggering views of the stage.
Good value can also be found on the third level in the Upper Circle although these are situated quite high up and may not be suitable for patrons suffering from vertigo. Alternatively, the loges on the sides of the Dress Circle are ideal for those on a budget looking for cheap MJ the Musical tickets. These seats offer side views, but do not necessarily restrict the view of any part of the stage. The rows at the rear of the Stalls section can also be regularly discounted and offer clear views.