MJ The Musical at Nederlander Theatre Chicago

Chicago Theatergoers, mark your calendars for a thrilling musical experience! The highly anticipated "MJ" is set to grace the stage of the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago from August 1 to September 2, 2023. This musical is a tribute to one of the greatest entertainers of all time, Michael Jackson, and offers a rare look into the creative mind and collaborative spirit that propelled him to legendary status.

"MJ" is a Broadway musical that premiered in December 2021 and has won four Tony Awards. The musical is centered around the making of Michael Jackson's 1992 Dangerous World Tour. It is a creation of Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage. The musical goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.

The musical will star Roman Banks, a stunning performer who, at the age of 24, is set to play Michael Jackson in "MJ". Banks, who was the first person of color to play Evan in "Dear Evan Hansen", is overjoyed to be playing his "musical hero" on stage. "I grew up on this music," he said, expressing his excitement to kick off the tour in Chicago. He hopes audiences will "bring an attitude of welcoming and joy" when they see the show.

MJ The Musical at Nederlander Theatre in Chicago

The musical recounts the early days of the Jackson Five in Gary, Indiana, and their first appearance in a grade-school talent show. It follows the dramatic machinations behind the singer's 1992 Dangerous World Tour, pulling back the curtain on the legendary pop icon's rare genius and his personal demons of deep-seated insecurity and his self-destructive penchant for deadly opioids.

"MJ" explodes on stage from start to finish, driving the play's narrative with Michael's overwhelming hits. His songs such as "I'll Be There", "Keep The Faith", and "Money", among others, are seamlessly woven into the book by Nottage to define significant plot points.

The musical also pays homage to the entertainment icons and musical influences that preceded MJ and the Jackson Five, including James Brown, Jackie Wilson, The Isley Brothers, Fred Astaire, the Nicholas Brothers, and Broadway legend Bob Fosse. There's also a cameo of Chicago legend Don Cornelius and a recreation of TVs Soul Train, which featured MJ and the Jacksons at various stages of their careers.

The story of MJ is like that of the mythical Icarus who donned wings and flew too close to the sun only to extinguish in the brilliance of his own flame. MJ is a shooting star that continues to blaze across the stage in "MJ: The Musical!", now on Broadway, and which makes its North American Tour Premiere at Chicago's Nederlander Theatre in August 2023.

Tickets are now on sale. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the life and legacy of Michael Jackson in a unique and unparalleled artistry that is finally coming to Chicago.

For more information and tickets, visit MJ The Musical in Chicago.