Myles Frost to play Michael Jackson in ‘MJ’ at Neil Simon Theatre
Ephraim Sykes will no longer star in the production.
We're looking at a new man in the mirror! Myles Frost will now play the role of Michael Jackson in the world premiere of MJ The Musical at the Neil Simon Theatre. Ephraim Sykes will no longer star in the production due to scheduling conflicts.
MJ The Musical will begin previews at the Neil Simon Theatre on December 6, ahead of an opening night on Feb. 1, 2022.
In a statement, Ephraim Sykes said: "It's with a heavy heart that I depart MJ. This year has brought a lot of change and opportunity, and although it's bittersweet to say goodbye to an iconic role and production, I look forward to what is to come. Thank you to the MJ team and congratulations to Myles. I can't wait to see you shine as the King of Pop and for us all to celebrate the return of Broadway."
Myles Frost will make his Broadway debut as Michael Jackson in MJ The Musical. Speaking about the new cast member, MJ director Christopher Wheeldon said: "We are extremely excited about Myles. All of his talents point towards a new rising star. I'm very much looking forward to working with him to shape the role of Michael Jackson for MJ."
MJ The Musical l is based on the life of Michael Jackson, and is written by Lynn Nottage. The world premiere musical is expected to include all of Jackson's greatest hits, including "Billie Jean", "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal."
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 opening in late 2021, joining other productions including Skeleton Crew, Company and Mrs. Doubtfire. Find out when all Broadway shows are opening in 2021 here.
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: Myles Frost (Photo by Regina Mogilevskaya)
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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