Brisbane didn’t just welcome MJ The Musical—it erupted for it. Playing to a packed house at the Lyric Theatre QPAC, opening night delivered a fever-pitch celebration of the King of Pop that felt as much like a concert as it did a theatrical event.
Not once, but twice, the show was brought to a halt mid-performance by standing ovations—first after “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and again following a thrilling, spine-tingling “Thriller.” Brisbane audiences are known for their warmth, but this was something else entirely—responsive, electric, and completely swept up in the moment. And of course, the curtain call was met with an instant, unanimous standing ovation—three in one night.
At the centre, Ilario Grant as MJ delivers far more than imitation—it is a full-bodied embodiment of Michael Jackson in voice, movement, and spirit. Every nuance feels lived-in, every gesture intentional, creating a performance that is both technically astonishing and emotionally immersive.
Brisbane’s own Liam Damons as Middle Michael proves a revelation—captivating, grounded, and deeply human. His portrayal offers a nuanced bridge between childhood stardom and global icon status, particularly in moments of reflection with his parents. These scenes land with quiet emotional force, adding a layer of introspection to the spectacle.
Little Michael—performed by the production’s rotating young stars—delivers one of the evening’s most surprising highlights, with a voice of remarkable clarity and power that becomes the emotional heartbeat of the show.
The structure—three Michaels inhabiting different timelines—is executed with seamless precision. Transitions are fluid, often breathtaking, allowing past and present to blur in moments of reflection, especially in scenes involving his parents, giving the production its emotional core.
A particularly inspired theatrical device is the way the production weaves in Michael’s dance influences. Through the ensemble, we see clear nods to Fred Astaire, Bob Fosse, and The Nicholas Brothers—stylised sequences that pay homage to the greats who shaped his artistry. What makes this especially compelling is how those influences are then absorbed and reimagined, later emerging in MJ’s own choreography. These echoes are cleverly threaded into his iconic numbers, allowing audiences to trace the lineage of movement that ultimately became unmistakably his own.
The Motown era is brought to life with dazzling authenticity, as vibrant, sharply tailored costumes transport the audience straight into the world of The Jackson 5. These sequences are steeped in nostalgia, capturing the infectious energy and precision of a young Michael performing alongside his brothers. The joy is palpable, but so too is the sense of a trajectory already in motion.
As the narrative evolves, we witness his artistic shift—stepping out from the group dynamic to forge his own path, collaborating with Conlon Bonner as Quincy Jones in a turning point that signals the birth of his unmistakable solo sound. It’s here the show cleverly explores his experimentation across styles, shaping the genre-defying artist the world would come to know.
Musically, the production thrives on inventive mashups that feel both nostalgic and newly energised. The Act One closer—set during the Dangerous World Tour press conference—is a standout: a gripping fusion of “Earth Song” and “They Don’t Really Care About Us” that is as politically charged as it is musically exhilarating.
The choreography by Christopher Wheeldon is nothing short of masterful—singular, precise, and deeply controlled. While clearly inspired by Michael Jackson’s iconic movement vocabulary, it never feels derivative. Instead, it honours the original while forging something entirely its own.
Penny McNamee as Rachel, the MTV journalist, is a compelling narrative anchor—measured and intelligent, grounding the spectacle with clarity and purpose. Oyoyo Joi as Katherine Jackson/Kate brings warmth and quiet strength, offering a deeply affecting portrayal of maternal protection and resilience.
J. Daughtry as Joseph Jackson/Rob commands the stage with intensity, seamlessly shifting between domineering father and driven tour director. Conlon Bonner as Tito Jackson/Quincy Jones delivers a dual performance rich in musicality and presence, balancing familial connection with industry authority. Wonza Johnson as Berry Gordy/Nick exudes charisma, adding texture and polish to the world surrounding MJ’s rise. Yashith Fernando as Alejandro is dynamic and engaging, grounding the rehearsal framework with energy and precision, while Tim Wright as Dave provides structure and subtle humour, guiding the narrative with a steady hand.
The adult ensemble—featuring Ceeko, Albanus Terry Strickland II, Luther Brooks IV, Sage Lee, Beth Appiah Cain, Shewit Belay, Martha Berhane, Eric Boyd, Charlie Bryant, Liam Costello, Tevin Daniel, Xavier Gibson, Kalisha Johnson, G Madison IV, Loredo Malcolm, David L. Murray Jr, Sebaga Neumann, Coby Njoroge, Warren Nolan Jr, Fletcher O’Leary, Brittany Page, Dustin Praylow, Tigist Strode, Iris Wei, and Tavio Wright—is the lifeblood of the production. Razor-sharp, endlessly versatile, and pulsating with energy, they transform seamlessly between characters, dancers, and abstract extensions of MJ’s psyche.
The band and orchestra deliver a soundscape that is rich, immersive, and electrifying. Every iconic track is honoured with precision while allowing the live performance to breathe with renewed vitality.
The costumes are a dazzling blend of iconic recreation and theatrical flair—from sequinned jackets to era-defining silhouettes, each piece enhancing both character and spectacle, with the Motown looks in particular evoking a vivid sense of time, place, and legacy.
“Thriller” is a theatrical triumph. The costumes, lighting, and set design collide in a gloriously spooky, inventive, and camp spectacle. Zombie-esque masks transform the ensemble into a haunting chorus, creating a number that is both nostalgic and thrillingly reimagined—and clearly one of the night’s most ovation-worthy moments.
Ultimately, MJ The Musical at QPAC is more than a jukebox musical—it is an immersive, high-octane exploration of artistry, pressure, and legacy. Brisbane’s opening night proved one thing beyond doubt: this is not just a show you watch—it’s one you feel, collectively, from the first beat to the final bow.
TICKETS
Now Playing at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC Brisbane Until 24 May
All images supplied.
The Fame Reporter 