MJ The Musical at Kravis Center: It Don't Stop Til You Get Enough

By Joanie Cox Henry

Once MJ: The Musical started, it didn't feel like we were at the Kravis Center anymore. We were magically transported to a dance rehearsal with Michael Jackson. The musical doesn't simply tell Michael Jackson's story. It resurrects his vulnerability and humble genius before your very eyes.

Jordan Markus commands the stage with a performance so mesmerizing, that you forget you're watching an actor at all. This is Michael Jackson reborn. Every moonwalk defies gravity with the same effortless grace, every spin radiates that signature electric energy, and every vocal inflection captures the icon's unmistakable sound. Markus isn't imitating. He somehow becomes Jackson, channeling both the supernatural performer and the vulnerable artist beneath the sequined glove. It's something spectacular to see-hee!

Equally captivating are Quentin Blanton Jr. and Eric Wiltz, who bring Little Michael to life with charm and astonishing talent that hints at the superstar in the making. Their performances add emotional depth and poignancy, reminding us of the child prodigy who would change music forever. The story devles a bit deeper than I expected into the pain Jackson experienced as a child star with a demanding dad for a manager. Luckily, it doesn't dwell there for too long though and like life itself, the show goes on.

The choreography is explosive and meticulously faithful to Jackson's legendary routines. From "Smooth Criminal" to "Thriller," each number builds in intensity, leaving the audience breathless. The ensemble cast moves as one electrifying unit, their energy infectious and their dedication palpable. You'll find yourself on your feet, unable to resist the pull of these iconic rhythms.

What elevates this production beyond a simple biographical musical is its intelligent storytelling structure. Rather than presenting a straightforward biography, the show frames Jackson's story through the lens of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour rehearsals, allowing glimpses into his creative process, his perfectionism, and the complex relationships that shaped his life and art.

The Kravis Center's state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect venue for this ambitious production. The sound design is impeccable, ensuring every note and lyric resonates with crystal clarity, while the lighting and projection design create visual magic that complements the music perfectly. The costume design deserves special recognition, faithfully recreating Jackson's most iconic looks with meticulous attention to detail.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or simply appreciate extraordinary theatrical experiences, MJ The Musical at the Kravis Center is unmissable. Be sure you stay until the end. You don't want to miss the final numbers at the end!

MJ: The Musical is running at Kravis Center in West Palm Beach through Feb. 15.

https://www.kravis.org/events/mj-the-musical/

Here are some images from opening night!