MJ The Musical Review: A Moonwalking Masterpiece That’ll Have You Dancing in Your Seat

There are two types of people in the world: those who casually appreciate Michael Jackson’s music and those who know every lyric, every spin, and exactly when to hit the “HEE-HEE!” during Billie Jean. If you fall into the latter category (or even if you don’t), MJ The Musical at Sydney Lyric Theatre is an absolute must-see.

This isn’t just a jukebox musical—it’s an all-out immersive experience that takes you through the life, music, and legendary moves of the King of Pop. It got a standing ovation – need I say more! Even my inner “cool, composed parent” was ready to grab a sequinned glove and moonwalk out of the theatre.

So, if you’re wondering whether it’s worth finding a babysitter and reliving the magic of MJ for the night, let me break it down for you.

The Story: More Than Just the Hits

Set in 1992, as Jackson prepares for his Dangerous tour, the musical cleverly frames the story as a behind-the-scenes documentary, with an MTV journalist trying to get the real Michael. This allows us to step inside his world—not just the glitter and glamour, but the perfectionism, pressure, and sheer genius behind the icon.

Unlike some biographical musicals that feel like a Wikipedia page set to music, MJ The Musical balances the spectacle of his performances with intimate moments of his life. You see his creative process, his relentless drive, and even glimpses of his childhood as part of The Jackson 5. It’s a powerful reminder that behind the moonwalk and magic, there was a man who was both extraordinary and human.

The Performances: Michael-Level Magic

Let’s talk about the man playing Michael. Because, let’s be real—no one can truly be Michael Jackson… right?

Wrong.

The lead performer doesn’t just imitate MJ; he embodies him. The voice? Eerily perfect. The dance moves? Flawless. I spent half the show squinting, wondering if time travel was real because it felt like the real Michael had somehow landed on stage. From his signature toe stands, every move was executed with spine-tingling accuracy.

Supporting cast members shine too, especially the actors playing Young Michael and his brothers. The flashbacks to Jackson 5 days -pure nostalgia overload. If you had any childhood memories of belting out ABC into a hairbrush, prepare for them to come flooding back.

The Music: The Ultimate MJ Playlist

Now, the real question: Do they play the hits? Oh, do they ever!

This is not a musical where you sit politely and tap your foot—this is a full-blown Jackson concert disguised as a theatre show.

Expect iconic songs, seamlessly woven into the storytelling. From the electric Smooth Criminal to the anthem Black or White, the stage explodes with the kind of energy that makes you want to stand up and start choreographing your own Thriller routine in the aisle. (Note: Theatre etiquette suggests you don’t do this, but the temptation is real.)

By the time Man in the Mirror played, people were singing, and losing their minds—and honestly, I was right there with them. Now, before you come for me, yes, I know you have to be considerate of people around you, and no one likes that one person blocking their view. But when a whole theatre full of people sings together, caught in the magic of the moment, it’s impossible not to feel the electricity in the air.

The Staging & Choreography: Pure Showmanship

The set design is slick, dynamic, and full of surprises. There are jaw-dropping visual projections, epic costume changes, and that famous Billie Jean light-up floor moment that had the entire audience gasping.

And the choreography?

It’s unbelievable. Every routine pays homage to MJ’s original work, with the kind of high-energy precision that reminds you why he was the most imitated artist in history. You could feel the dedication to getting it right, from his sharp pop-and-lock isolations to that iconic crotch grab that is, let’s face it, essential to any MJ tribute.

For the Parents Wondering… Is It Family-Friendly?

If you’re thinking of bringing the kids, here’s what you need to know:

• There’s no explicit content, but some themes touch on MJ’s struggles with fame and his difficult childhood. Nothing too heavy, but younger kids might not grasp it all.
• The music and performances are so electrifying that older kids (think 8+) will be completely mesmerised. If your child has ever attempted a moonwalk in the kitchen, they’ll be obsessed.
• If you really want to indoctrinate your child into MJ fandom, this is the ultimate way to do it.

But if you’re a parent looking for a rare night off, this is the perfect excuse to grab a drink, let loose, and remind yourself that once upon a time, you weren’t just a lunch-packing, bedtime-enforcing machine—you were someone who danced to Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough like your life depended on it.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Babysitter?

Let me put it this way: yes. A thousand times yes.

MJ The Musical isn’t just a show—it’s an experience. It’s the closest you’ll ever get to seeing Michael Jackson live. The performances are electric, the music is timeless, and by the end, you’ll be clapping, singing, and wondering why you ever stopped trying to moonwalk.

Whether you were a die-hard fan or just someone who grew up hearing his music in the background of every major life event, this show will hit you right in the nostalgia and leave you completely in awe.

And if you’re still on the fence, just know this—it got a standing ovation.

Trust me, parents, this is the kind of “me-time” you deserve. Book the tickets, grab the sequins, and get ready to feel the magic of MJ all over again.

🎟️ MJ The Musical is now playing at Sydney Lyric Theatre. Buy tickets here