REVIEW – MICHAEL JACKSON THE IMMORTAL WORLD TOUR
Image: Photo by OSA Images, Costumes, Zaldy Goco, ©2012 Cirque-Jackson I.P., LLC
If this is a tribute show then it is the ultimate homage. Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour by Cirque du Soleil, is a spectacular creation that celebrates the undisputed King of pop’s musical legacy.
Cirque du Soleil is the only entertainment company that could match Jackson’s creativity, innovation and dedication to performing. It makes sense then that the imagination of Cirque be combined with Jackson’s music to produce an engaging two-hour production.
Jackson was reportedly a fan of Cirque and before his untimely demise had the goal of collaborating with them. This is the next best thing, as Cirque takes the best pieces of Jackson’s iconography and integrates them into a dynamic show featuring everything from the gates of his Neverland Ranch to Bubbles the chimp.
The constantly evolving sets are smooth and create the right amount of misdirection so that one scene blends effortlessly into the next. A mime dressed in white is used as a device to tie each scene together as he explores and evokes Jackson’s spirit.
The first half is immediately exciting as dancers, aerial artists, musicians and acrobats bounce around the stage to songs like Smooth Criminal, Thriller and Wanna Be Starting Something. Each discipline is perfectly suited to the song, from a Dangerous pole dancer to a contortionist storyteller during Scary Story.
The second half slows towards the end when Jackson’s legacy of hope and healing the world becomes the focus. There is still a lot going on, but the spirit of Cirque seems to take a back seat to a more subdued theatrical experience.
Cirque remains true to Jackson by ending the show with Man in the Mirror – a reflective song that Jackson often ended his concerts with.
Jackson’s songs are magnanimous and combined with cutting edge technology and the wonder of Cirque, Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour is a show that will entertain everyone. (LL)
Until Sep 29, Allphones Arena, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, $89-189, 132 849, ticketek.com.au
