Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour

Katrina Florio

When it comes to Michael Jackson, opinions of him are often varied. Some people loved him, believing that he was full of passion and kindness and was misunderstood by society. Others loved to hate him. One thing that cannot be disputed, however, is that Michael Jackson was a man of unsurpassed talent and creativity — a star so bright that no other could outshine him. He was known for drawing crowds of all races, genders, ethnicities and ages into a room and making them feel like one, and it was no different at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, April 5th, when Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour rolled into New York City.

The show was an endless parade of captivating choreography, riveting acrobatics, wonderful theatrics and attention-grabbing pyrotechnics. From mimes to instrumentalists to a one-legged acrobat, who wowed the crowd with his talent and drew in the loudest cheers, Cirque du Soleil brought the entertainment it is famous for and more.

The two and a half hour show featured medleys from Jackson’s most famous songs, including his hits “Smooth Criminal,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” “Bad,” and “Man in the Mirror,” among his Jackson 5 hits and many others. Footage from his music videos was often displayed in the background, as dancers flawlessly reenacted his legendary dance moves alongside acrobats, musicians, pole dancers and contortionists.  As an introduction to some of the flawlessly executed routines, audio clips of Jackson saying his most famous quotes echoed through the speakers, giving the chilling feeling that he was among the audience in the packed arena.

The details entailed in this performance were incredible. Between the acrobats’ light-clad costumes to reflect stars in the sky, the replica Neverland Ranch gates, the life-sized, dancing Michael Jackson glitter glove and a dancer dressed as MJ’s former chimpanzee, Bubbles, it felt as though Michael Jackson’s world had truly come alive. It seemed the only thing that was missing was Jackson, himself, but his creative spirit and energy were alive and well during the whole performance.

From parents with their young children to teenagers with their friends and adults reminiscing about yesteryear, Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson: The Immortal left nearly everyone with a smile on his or her face. The show even attracted some famous figures, like former Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dina Manzo, who tweeted that she was in the audience of the show and shared a picture of her favorite performance scene with her Twitter followers.

Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour is currently making its way throughout the United States and stops next at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale before heading off to Pennsylvania. It’s worth seeing for any Michael Jackson fan or for anyone looking to have a fun night out.  It doesn’t disappoint.