Duration
2 hrs 30 mins with interval
Closing Date
Until May 24, 2026
Age requirement
Suitable for 8+ yrs
Why Watch MJ the Musical?
- Set during rehearsals for the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, MJ The Musical explores how Michael Jackson shaped sound, movement, and spectacle behind the scenes.
- Directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon (An American in Paris) with a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage (Ruined), the show brings Broadway-calibre craft.
- Rehearsal rooms become memory spaces as songs like Billie Jean, Beat It, and Man in the Mirror trace Jackson’s pursuit of precision and creative control.
- Following seasons across Australia, this touring production arrives in Brisbane for a limited run. Book your MJ The Musical Brisbane tickets now!
MJ The Musical focuses on a defining moment in Michael Jackson’s career, the creation of the Dangerous World Tour. Rather than attempting a cradle-to-grave biography, the musical uses rehearsal sequences to reveal how Jackson collaborated with dancers, musicians, and designers to build a global spectacle. Directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, the production combines concert-style energy with theatrical storytelling. Lynn Nottage’s book frames the music around creative decision-making, pressure, and legacy. For Brisbane audiences, the show brings Broadway-approved staging and choreography to the Lyric Theater, performed by a large Australian cast.
Storyline
During preparations for the Dangerous World Tour, Michael Jackson worked intensely with his creative team to refine choreography, sound, and staging. As rehearsals unfold, moments from his past surface: childhood fame, artistic breakthroughs, and the weight of expectation. The musical moves between present-day creation and memory, using music as the connective tissue. Each choice in the rehearsal room reveals more about the artist behind the image. Where that process leads becomes clear only as the final performance takes shape.
Show timings
Show timings for MJ the Musical may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles: Ilario Grant as MJ, Liam Damons as Michael, Conlon Bonner as Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones, Derrick Davis as Joseph Jackson and Rob, Josslynn Hlenti Afoa as Katherine Jackson, Wonza Johnson as Berry Gordy and Nick, Penny McNamee as Rachel, Tim Wright as Dave, Xavier Gibson as Marlon Jackson, Kyle Kavully as Jackie Jackson, and G Madison IV as Randy Jackson
Director & choreographer: Christopher Wheeldon
Writer: Lynn Nottage
Music supervisor: David Holcenberg
Set design: Derek McLane
Lighting design: Natasha Katz
Costume design: Paul Tazewell
Sound design: Gareth Owen
Projection design: Peter Nigrini
Hair & wig design: Charles LaPointe
Make-up design: Joe Dulude II
Top songs
The show features live arrangements spanning Michael Jackson’s career. Audiences can expect Beat It, Billie Jean, Bad, Man in the Mirror, Smooth Criminal, Black or White, Thriller, along with Jackson 5 classics like I Want You Back and ABC.
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for ages 8 years and above.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
Q: How much do MJ The Musical Brisbane tickets cost?
A: Prices vary depending on your choice of seats and show dates.
Q: Where is MJ The Musical playing in Brisbane?
A: The musical is playing at the Lyric Theatre in Brisbane.
Q: How long does the musical run?
A: The running time is 2 hours and 50 minutes, including one intermission.
Q: What is MJ The Musical about?
A: The show focuses on Michael Jackson during rehearsals for the Dangerous World Tour, exploring his career, influences, and creative decisions.
Q: What age is the musical suitable for?
A: There is no strict age limit, but it is generally recommended for ages 8 years and above.
Q: Who plays Michael Jackson in the Brisbane production?
A: The role is shared by Ilario Grant as MJ and Liam Damons as Michael.
Q: What songs are featured in MJ The Musical?
A: The show includes live arrangements of Beat It, Billie Jean, Bad, Man in the Mirror, Smooth Criminal, Black or White, Thriller, plus Jackson 5 tracks like I Want You Back and ABC. You can listen to the album here.
Q: Does the musical cover Michael Jackson’s entire life?
A: No. It stays centred on the Dangerous World Tour era, using selective flashbacks tied to key creative moments.
Q: How closely does the show follow Jackson’s real working process?
A: Rehearsal scenes reflect documented interviews and production practices from the early 1990s.
Q: Is this the same production seen internationally?
A: Yes. The Brisbane season follows Broadway-approved staging, choreography, and design, adapted for the Australian tour.
Lyric Theatre QPAC
Lyric Theatre opened in 1985 as part of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) complex in Brisbane. It's the largest performance space in QPAC, boasting a capacity of approximately 2,000 seats. The spacious layout features comfortable continental seating with options for wheelchair users and those with mobility difficulties. Whether you're seated in the stalls or one of the two balcony levels, you'll have a clear view of the stage. Previous productions at Lyric Theatre include Singin' in the Rain, Mary Poppins, and more.
Getting There
- Address: Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
- By metro:
The nearest train station is South Brisbane Station, directly across Grey Street.
- By train:
South Brisbane Station, opposite QPAC in Grey Street
- By bus:
Platform 2 and Platform 3 on Melbourne St, opposite Starbucks Coffee CityCat: South Bank ferry stop, a short walk along the river from QPAC
- By ferry:
CityCat and ferry services stop at South Bank ferry terminals, followed by a short walk to QPAC.
- By car:
Paid parking is available at QPAC’s on-site car parks and nearby South Bank parking facilities.
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Cloak room, Dining outlets, Toilets, Free parking, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Elevator access, Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your MJ the Musical voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
There is no strict age limit, but it is most suitable for ages 8 years and above.
The musical is playing at the Lyric Theater, Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
It follows Michael Jackson during rehearsals for the Dangerous World Tour, reflecting on his career, influences, and creative process.
The running time is approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including one intermission.
The cast includes Ilario Grant as MJ and Liam Damons as Michael, alongside a large Australian ensemble.
Songs include Billie Jean, Beat It, Bad, Smooth Criminal, Thriller, and Jackson 5 favourites like I Want You Back and ABC. You can listen to the MJ The Musical playlist here.
No. The story stays focused on the Dangerous era, using selective flashbacks tied to creative milestones.
Yes. The Australian tour retains Broadway-approved staging, choreography, and design.
