‘MJ The Musical’ world premiere to open at Neil Simon Theatre in December
Ephraim Sykes will play the King of Pop.
The upcoming world premiere of MJ The Musical will open in 2021, a year after it was first scheduled. MJ The Musical will begin previews at the Neil Simon Theatre on December 6, ahead of an opening night on Feb. 1, 2022.
Ephraim Sykes stays attached to the production, leading the MJ The Musical cast as the titular singer. Previously, Sykes has played David Ruffin in Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations.
MJ The Musical is based on the life of Michael Jackson, exploring his early career as a member of the Jackson 5 to becoming a musical superstar. The production will include some of Jackson's greatest hits including "Thriller", "Billie Jean" and "Beat It".
MJ The Musical features an original book by Lynn Nottage, with direction and choreography from Christopher Wheeldon. Scenic design is by Derek McLane, with lighting design by Natasha Katz, costume design by Paul Tazewell and sound design by Gareth Owen.
MJ The Musical is at the Neil Simon Theatre from December 6.
Find out more about what's playing on Broadway and how to get theatre tickets in New York.
Photo credit: Ephraim Sykes outside the Neil Simon Theatre (Photo by Little Fang)
Frequently asked questions
What is MJ The Musical about?
See a new side of the cultural trailblazer, complete with gorgeous renditions of his greatest hits and his iconic dance moves, in MJ The Musical. Michael Jackson takes center stage, circa 1992, as an MTV camera crew's interview unlocks memories and key moments of the icon's rise to stardom. Find out more about MJ The Musical tickets.
Where is MJ The Musical playing?
MJ The Musical is playing at Neil Simon Theatre. The theatre is located at 250 West 52nd Street (between Broadway and 8th Avenue), New York, 10019.
How long is MJ The Musical?
The running time of MJ The Musical is 2hr 30min. Incl. 1 intermission.
What's the age requirement for MJ The Musical?
The recommended age for MJ The Musical is Ages 8+. Children under 4 are not permitted. .
How do you book tickets for MJ The Musical?
Book tickets for MJ The Musical on New York Theatre Guide.
Who wrote MJ The Musical?
Lynn Nottage, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, wrote the script for MJ The Musical. The songs were written by more than 50 artists in total, but nearly all the songs are hits made famous by Michael Jackson. A few others are other famous songs from his era.
Who directed and choreographed MJ The Musical?
Christopher Wheeldon is the director and choreographer of MJ The Musical. He won the Best Choreography Tony Award in 2023 for his work. He is also known for his direction and Tony-winning choreography of An American in Paris.
Which Michael Jackson songs are in MJ The Musical?
MJ The Musical includes more than two dozen Michael Jackson songs including "Thriller," "Beat It," "Billie Jean," "Bad," and "Smooth Criminal." The show also features Jackson 5 songs and a few other famous pop songs from his era. Learn more about how Michael Jackson songs are used in MJ The Musical.
Is MJ The Musical appropriate for kids?
MJ The Musical is recommended for ages 8 and up. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.
Is MJ The Musical good?
MJ The Musical won four Tony Awards and is among the best-reviewed shows on New York Theatre Guide. Our five-star review reads, "MJ is the platinum standard... the perfect salutation to the life of an imperfect but gifted icon."
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