Michael Jackson Musical MJ Recoups on Broadway

Producers Lia Vollack, John McClain, and John Branca (who was Michael Jackson’s longtime attorney) announced today that the Broadway musical, MJ, has recouped its initial investment, which the New York Times reported in 2021 was $22.5 million. The production has played to over 750,000 patrons since beginning performances in December 2021.

With a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ tells the story of Michael Jackson (right up to the 1992 Dangerous tour) using Jackson’s ever-popular music: “ABC,” “Beat It,” “Smooth Criminal,” and “Thriller” are all featured in production numbers by director-choreographer Christopher Wheeldon.

The production includes scenic design by Tony and two-time Emmy Award winner Derek McLane, lighting design by six-time Tony Award winner Natasha Katz, costume design by Tony and Emmy Award winner Paul Tazewell, sound design by two-time Tony Award nominee Gareth Owen, projection design by two-time Tony Award nominee Peter Nigrini, and hair and wig design by two-time Emmy Award nominee Charles LaPointe.

A national tour is set to launch this summer in Chicago, and the West End premiere is set for March 2024 at London’s Prince Edward Theatre.

Regarding the Broadway production, TheaterMania’s chief critic wrote, “I suspect it’s going to be a big fat hit.” You can read the full review here.