A Broadway blockbuster based on the life of one of the greatest entertainers and most influential pop-culture icons of all time is coming to central Ohio, and if you're hoping to see it, run — don't (moon)walk — because tickets are going fast.
Guaranteed to be a "Thriller," the Columbus premiere of the award-winning "MJ the Musical" will dance onto the stage at the Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., for eight shows running Sept. 10-15.
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Presented by producers Lia Vollack, John Branca, John McClain and PNC Broadway in Columbus, the jukebox musical centered on the making of Michael Jackson's 1992 "Dangerous" world tour is on track to pack the house each night, according to Chad Whittington, CEO and president of the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA).
"We've had great sales. The show's very popular and tickets have gone quickly. There's still a few weeks left to see how sales continue, but we're going to have a great audience for this show," he said.
"MJ" is part of PNC Broadway in Columbus' 2024-25 season. Single tickets, which start at $49, can be purchased at the CBUSArts ticket center at the Ohio Theatre, by calling 614-469-0939 or online at broadwayincolumbus.com .
Ticket buyers can avoid scams by keeping in mind that CAPA, the Ohio Theatre and broadwayincolumbus.com are the only official retail ticket outlets for all performances at the Ohio Theatre.
Whittington attributed the show's popularity to Jackson's legacy as a "dynamic performer." The internationally acclaimed artist began his professional career at age 5 with his four older brothers as the Jackson 5 and would have turned 66 on Aug. 29. He died on June 25, 2009 .
"There are so many songs (in 'MJ') that people will recognize. It helps that it has great buzz coming out of New York. It's such a well-done show," he said.
"MJ" not only captures Jackson's legendary sound and mesmerizing dance moves, but also offers a rare glimpse into the late King of Pop's creative mind. "It's not just about the music; there's a great story, as well," Whittington said.
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Rave reviews have flooded in for lead actor Jamaal Fields-Green, the only person to have played the role in all three global productions: on Broadway, on the national tour and in London’s West End, all of which drew sold-out crowds.
"I haven't seen this touring production yet, but it was almost eerie to watch in New York," Whittington said.
"MJ" was created by director-choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, winner of the 2022 Tony Award for the show's choreography, and playwright Lynn Nottage, the first and only woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama twice.
The show features musical supervision by Tony Award nominee David Holcenberg, orchestration and arrangements by Holcenberg and Tony winner Jason Michael Webb and music direction by Victor Simonson.
The production's creative team is also made up of an impressive number of Tony and Emmy award winners and nominees, from its scene, lighting, costume and sound designers to its projection, hair/wig and makeup creators.
bpaschal@dispatch.com
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Here's how to get tickets for 'MJ,' the hit musical about Michael Jackson
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