What a rush! The music of Michael Jackson is always a crowd favorite. “MJ The Musical” pulls out all the stops to create a journey through the King of Pop’s life, trauma, and creative prowess. Roman Banks’ perfect performance as Michael throws you into yesteryear as you witness firsthand how his quirky genius made him the pop icon that he is. You don’t want to miss this show!

The story takes us to the days leading up to the launch of the Dangerous World Tour where Jackson’s big dreams, ideas, and visions are giving his business manager and his creative team panic and ulcers. New lights, new choreography, and a new set list are the least of their worries. MTV is in the rehearsal room watching the events unfold, trying to get the dirt on allegations that surrounded Jackson in the early 90’s. Jackson is adamant that the documentary can only discuss the music he is working on, but that isn’t enough for the appetite of the network. Through the rehearsal process, flashbacks take us back to the upbringing of Jackson and his rise to stardom.

This production is phenominal. In an era of pop star bio-musicals, a formula is starting to develop where the story of the star is told through the music. While this is no different than the likes of “Jersey Boys” or “Beautiful” it is a show that treats the audience to a production that is both engaging and entertaining. The set assists in telling the story, along with seeing the band on stage. It brings you into the mood of creating an enviornment that I assume was present while Jackson worked his magic getting ready for the tour.

As I said earlier, Roman Banks gives a performance that would send shivers down Jackson’s spine in real life. If you close your eyes, you cannot tell the difference between the real Jackson and Banks. He is just that good. His mannerisms, demeanor, and presence on stage is uncanny. 

Devin Bowles plays both Rob – the tour director, and Joseph Jackson in the seamless flashbacks to Jackson’s youth. Bowels is a very charismatic actor being able to let us love him and hate him at the flip of a hat. He walks into the past and the present with ease and is really fun to watch. 

Mary Kate Moore plMJays Rachel, the MTV documentarian, who is both calming and pushy in this production. She wants to get the dirt on her subject and gets caught up in keeping Micheal on her side, or losing him to distrust. 

The ensemble in this piece is wonderful. They bring the different players in Jackson’s life as well as the songs to life on stage with energy and glamour. This high energy show never stops for a second!

My only criticism of this show is that at times it felt long. I did find myself drifting once in a while but overall, I really enjoyed this show! Go see it, or you can “Beat it!”

Running Time: 2 Hours 30 Minutes with a 15 minute-intermission.

“MJ the Musical” runs until June 16 and is presented at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. For more information, click here.