Before he was the King of Pop, Michael Jackson was just Michael, a young boy with big dreams and an even bigger talent.
Now, his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to global superstardom is taking centre stage in Sydney with MJ the Musical, the Tony Award-winning production that has audiences dancing in the aisles.
The show, currently playing at the Sydney Lyric theatre, is an electrifying tribute to Jackson’s life, music, and unmatched artistry.
It’s not just a musical; it’s an immersive experience that has been leaving crowds breathless. From iconic dance moves to timeless hits like Billie Jean, Beat It, and Smooth Criminal, MJ the Musical captures the essence of a legend who changed music forever.
Liam Damons, who plays teenage Michael in the production, is living a dream he never expected, recently spoke to TODAY Extra.
“It is my very first onstage role, my first musical theatre audition. What a dream gig,” Damons told hosts David Campbell and Sylvia Jeffreys.
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But stepping into the moonwalking shoes of an icon isn’t easy. “Oh my God, it’s been such a huge honour, more so than anything, and it’s been a lot of pressure. To be able to get his moves down, to be able to get that sort of essence really is what you’re trying to capture in the show, but the team’s been so helpful.”
For Damons, the role is deeply personal. “Oh my god, no, I grew up with Michael Jackson. My dad was the biggest Michael Jackson fan. He had all of his CDs, all of his DVDs. He went to the Dangerous Tour in South Africa, yeah, so he got to at least give me all the lowdown. He had his tour t-shirt that he also gave me from the tour, so he really scored.”
And when it comes to preparing for the role, Damons didn’t hold back.
“I’m on stage 8 times a week, I step into it. We got to watch the show in New York and work with the Talauega Brothers, who’ve worked closely with Michael Jackson and have danced backup for him and choreographed for him.”
And the hard work is paying off. The buzz around MJ The Musical is electric, with audiences raving about the show’s energy and emotion.
“Every night this week has been insane at the end of it. We have a big finale number and everybody’s up and dancing. That’s the most fun because that’s when all the house lights come up, and you get to interact with everybody and see how people really enjoyed the show.”
From start to finish, MJ the Musical is a celebration of an artist whose music continues to inspire generations.
It’s a show for die-hard fans and newcomers alike, and a chance to relive the music, magic, and moves of one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
Are you ready to be thrilled? Tickets are on sale now.
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