Michael Jackson’s legacy continues to leave audiences breathless—and this fall, that energy is hitting the stage in Vancouver. The four-time Tony Award®-winning production of MJ: The Musical is moonwalking its way into the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for an electrifying six-night run that’s guaranteed to get gay hearts pounding, toes tapping, and memories flooding back to the era of glove-covered hands and gravity-defying lean moves.

This isn’t just a jukebox musical. It’s a time capsule to one of pop culture’s most unforgettable eras, and it peels back the glitter to reveal the perfectionism, pressure, and power behind Michael Jackson’s artistry. Built around the creation of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, this production tells a bigger story: about genius, resilience, and the price of performance. The music is iconic, yes—but the storytelling, choreography, and jaw-dropping visuals make this a Broadway experience like no other.

Whether you grew up glued to MTV, learned the “Thriller” moves in your living room, or just want to understand the legend behind the moonwalk, this show’s got your name on it. It’s flashy. It’s fierce. And it’s bringing the King of Pop’s energy, magic, and mystique to the stage with a cast and creative team that are turning heads across the globe.

Jordan Markus Is Michael Jackson

Stepping into the legendary role of MJ is no small feat—but Jordan Markus isn’t just stepping in, he’s owning it. This trailblazer is the first and only performer to take on the role of MJ in all three major global productions: Broadway, the U.S. National Tour, and London’s West End. The physicality, the voice, the presence—Markus embodies the icon with a polish and finesse that’s almost eerie. You don’t watch him perform; you feel him channel.

Markus will be joined by Melvin Gray Jr. as the alternate MJ, offering powerhouse performances two times each week. Both performers bring something unique to the role, but each captures the larger-than-life charisma that made Jackson a global phenomenon. Audiences in Vancouver will be in for a treat no matter which night they attend.

A Cast That Brings the Jackson Legacy to Life

While MJ might be the main event, the supporting cast adds rich layers to the story—playing the family, mentors, and collaborators that shaped Jackson’s evolution. Devin Bowles is riveting as Joseph Jackson, the formidable patriarch, while Anastasia Talley brings warmth and strength to the role of Katherine Jackson. J. Daughtry shines in the dual roles of Berry Gordy and Nick, adding dimension to MJ’s early Motown days.

The younger versions of Michael—played by Quentin Blanton Jr. and Bryce A. Holmes—highlight his meteoric rise with vocals that are downright angelic. Add to that a dynamic ensemble of singers, dancers, and swings, and you’ve got a stage bursting with talent, energy, and emotion. Each movement is purposeful. Every vocal is pitch-perfect. This cast is tight, talented, and totally in sync.

Built Around the Dangerous Tour

Unlike most biographical musicals that try to squeeze an entire life into two acts, MJ zooms in on a pivotal point in the superstar’s career: the days leading up to the Dangerous World Tour in 1992. The framing is smart. It sidesteps the controversies and gives audiences a fresh lens to appreciate Jackson’s relentless creativity, technical mastery, and the way he curated every moment of his performances down to the tiniest detail.

This is a story about artistry, not just fame. It shows the collaborative grind of rehearsals, the pressure of legacy, and the thrill of creative breakthroughs. The result is part concert, part documentary, part fever dream.

From Broadway to the West End and Now Vancouver

MJ has been racking up rave reviews since it opened on Broadway, where it won four Tony Awards including Best Actor and Best Choreography. It’s played to sold-out crowds in London’s West End, Hamburg, and Sydney—and now, Vancouver joins the international party.

The energy of this production is contagious. It’s not nostalgia—it’s reanimation. The stage pulses with hits like “Beat It,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Billie Jean,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and yes, “Thriller.” The sound is crisp, the visuals are sharp, and the whole thing feels like a 3D music video exploded onto the stage.

A Creative Team of Industry Heavyweights

There’s a reason this show is raking in awards and global acclaim—it was built by a team of theatre royalty. Direction and choreography come from Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon, whose vision turns dance into drama. The book is written by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, adding depth and dimension that few musicals achieve.

Set design by Derek McLane (Emmy and Tony winner) creates a layered and immersive stage environment. Natasha Katz’s lighting is nothing short of hypnotic, while Paul Tazewell’s costume design keeps things authentic and expressive. Sound wizard Gareth Owen ensures that every beat lands perfectly in your chest.

Throw in hair and makeup by Charles G. LaPointe and Joe Dulude II, projections by Peter Nigrini, and musical supervision from David Holcenberg and Jason Michael Webb—and what you’ve got is a Broadway masterpiece. Every element contributes to the experience.

American Express and eCLUB Presales

Want early access? American Express Cardmembers can jump the line with exclusive presale access from July 7 to 9. Not a Cardmember? Members of the Broadway Across Canada eCLUB can also snag tickets early between July 10 and 13. And if you’re wrangling a crew of ten or more, group sales are open now through Broadway Across Canada’s box office.

The Production Machine Behind the Tour

This isn’t some second-rate touring show. The First National Tour of MJ is managed by Bespoke Theatricals and features a tight ship of stage managers, company managers, and technical staff that keep the production running flawlessly across North America. With cities like San Francisco, Chicago, and Toronto already raving, Vancouver is the next lucky stop.

And trust, this is a Broadway Across Canada moment you don’t want to miss. Broadway Across Canada continues to bring elite-level touring productions to cities across the country, with past and current hits including Hamilton, Hadestown, and Moulin Rouge! MJ adds to that top-tier list and proves that touring theatre can rival even the most elite Broadway stages.

Final Countdown to Showtime

Whether you’re a lifelong Michael Jackson fan or a Broadway baby looking for your next theatrical fix, this show delivers on every level. The music. The moves. The magic. It’s a high-octane homage to a pop legend that never feels like imitation. Instead, it honors the essence of who MJ was: a driven, complicated, wildly talented artist who redefined what it meant to entertain.

MJ: The Musical runs at Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre from November 25 to 30, 2025. General public tickets go on sale July 14 at 10 a.m. PDT at Ticketmaster.ca and BroadwayAcrossCanada.ca. Don’t sleep on this—like Michael’s own career, the seats are vanishing fast.

Are You Ready for the Magic?

Are you planning to moonwalk your way into the Queen Elizabeth Theatre this fall? Have you seen MJ live in another city? What songs are you hoping to see brought to life? Leave your thoughts, ticket tips, and showgirl-worthy excitement in the comments below!