The King of Pop Makes Broadway Debut
CJ ENM’s globally co-produced musical, “MJ the Musical,” has officially opened at the Neil Simon Theatre in New York, NY, U.S. on February 1, 2022, drawing an enthusiastic audience response.
“MJ” is the first musical to feature the music and life story of Michael Jackson. The production was brought to life by a talented and accomplished team of creatives. Sole two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning female writer, Lynn Nottage, wrote MJ’s script, and the choreography was directed by a former choreographer from the New York City Ballet and Tony Winner for Best Choreography, Christopher Wheldon. Some of Broadway’s best also worked together for this musical. Tony Award winner, Derek McLane, who has designed more than 300 stages worldwide including the musical “Moulin Rouge!,” worked as a stage designer while Paul Tazewell took up the role of a costume designer. Tazwell is a Tony Award winner in Best Costume Design for his work on “Hamilton” and was recently nominated for an Academy Award in Best Costume Design for the film “West Side Story”. In addition, six-time Tony Award-winning Natasha Katz served as lighting designer while Peter Nigrini from “Dear Evan Hansen” took charge of video design.
‘MJ’ Gains Popularity, Rave Reviews Despite Omicron’s Aftermath
Since its preview on December 6, 2021, most of the performances have been sold out, revitalizing Broadway by ending its longest shutdown in recent history and proving that Michael Jackson’s fandom has firmly stood the test of time. The musical captivated audiences and media alike, positioning itself as a new, well-loved addition to Broadway.
Above all, the audience’s favorable reviews not only on the music of Michael Jackson but also on directing, actors, choreography, stage, lighting and video design validate the show’s strong musical quality and box office success. A relay of positive reviews by the local media continues to pour in:
“It’s unfortunate that he is not alive to witness this flawless musical.” – New York Theater Guide
““MJ” is an insanely entertaining musical tribute to Michael Jackson.” – Theatermania
““MJ”is a wildly entertaining marvel.” – Deadline
“A remarkable new musical, “MJ” excellently sheds a light on the topic [Michael Jackson].” – Hollywood Reporter
“Broadway’s latest musical, “MJ”, is a ‘Thriller’.” – Slant
“The creative team’s painstaking work has resulted in a riveting, adrenaline rush of a show.” – Washington Post
“I am very inspired by the amazing reactions that “MJ” is getting from Broadway,” said lead producer Lia Vollack. “I can feel the audience enjoying every single moment of the musical. CJ ENM is a great partner of this work. As a co-production company, I highly appreciate the participation and cooperation of CJ ENM.” Vollack also built global anticipation for the musical, adding that she “hopes that the musical will be available as soon as possible to audiences all over the world.”
Ye Ju-yeol, Head of CJ ENM’s Performance Business division, said “CJ ENM’s global co-production musical, “MJ,” is a thrilling work that harmonizes various elements like the worldwide megahit masterpieces of Michael Jackson and dynamic choreography. Although the opening of the musical got delayed due to the pandemic, I am pleased by this new and powerful Broadway musical that draws the attention of the audience and gathers their enthusiastic responses regardless of the long wait. I hope “MJ” will be available to watch in Korea as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, CJ ENM is increasing its presence in the global musical market by participating as a co-producer in various Broadway musicals such as “Kinky Boots,” “Bodyguard,” “Moulin Rouge!,” “Big Fish,” “Back to the Future” and “MJ.” CJ ENM’s co-produced musical, “Kinky Boots,” was the first Broadway musical co-produced with a Korean company that won a total of six categories from the 67th Tony Awards including the Tony Award for Best Musical. Subsequently, “Moulin Rouge!” conquered a total of ten categories from the 74th Tony Awards including the Tony Award for Best Musical, demonstrating CJ ENM’s global production capabilities. Furthermore, as a regular member of the Broadway League, CJ ENM is the first Korean company to participate in the evaluation of the Tony Awards, having done so since 2019.
