Sydney’s Allphones Arena buzzed with anticipation last night as the first timeless notes of Michael Jackson’s music rang out. In true Jackson style, the audience was treated to a feast of soul-stopping music, dance and theatrics with high-tech imagery and elaborate storytelling. The added and exceptional bonus of this show of course is the brilliance of Cirque Du Soleil.
From the first ticks, locks, pops and waves of the seriously talented Mime artist who links our journey through the life and measures of Michael’s ethos, the show takes on the larger than life persona of its inspiration. Eight massive LED screens project new concept and original Jackson footage, transporting the audience from the innocence of MJ’s ‘lost’ childhood to his Jackson 5 days, Neverland and his ultimate Pop-World domination. Integral to almost every part of the show of course is DANCE: ‘I keep on dancing and dancing… and dancing, until there is only … THE DANCE’ (MJJ). Jackson-esque costumed dancers recreate some of MJ’s most iconic and emulated video choreography for tracks such as ‘Smooth Criminal’, ‘Thriller’, ‘Beat It’ and re-enact ‘They Don’t Care About Us’ in the format which had been prepared for the ill-fated ‘THIS IS IT’ Tour. Additional choreography has been commissioned from top names such as Travis Payne, Rich & Ton Talauega, Debra Brown, Jamal Sims, Tabitha & Napoleon Dumo, Tramara Levinson, Daniel Cloud Camps and Mandy Moore.
The Cirque performers thrill with trademark logic-defying physicality … Act 1 includes the gravity defying ‘Dangerous’ pole dancing performance by Anna Melnikova and a breathtaking contortion ‘Bookworm’ act. Act 2 commences with an engaging aerial ballet to ‘I Just Can’t Stop Loving You’ and heart stopping acrobats in brilliant synchronisation perform a spectacular tumbling act to ‘Scream’.
MJ’s music has the house rocking, tapping and clapping from start to finish – some would argue the music alone would be enough! Musicians and back-up vocalists are exceptional and add to the grand scale spectacle with hi tech hydraulic staging and elaborate sets. The fusion of all elements immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world, authentically recreating both MJ’s heart-felt sentiments as well as his sensational ability to entertain.
- Sydney’s Allphones Arena (26 to 29 September)
- Brisbane Entertainment Centre (2-6 October) and …
- Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena (10 to 13 October).\
www.ticketek.com.au
or by calling 132 849. Tickets range from $89 to $189 each.
