The king of pop’s Broadway production is getting some new talent this April! MJ the Musical is one of the most highly anticipated Broadway productions of the year. With a star-studded cast and a talented creative team behind it, the show promises to be a thrilling experience for fans of Michael Jackson’s music and an honor to his legacy. One of the most exciting announcements surrounding the show is the casting. Elijah Rhea Johnson in the role of Michael Jackson.
Elijah Rhea Johnson Set to Lead in MJ the Musical
Johnson will have large shoes to fill after succeeding Tony Award-winner Myles Frost in the title role. Frost’s final night in the role is April 2, with Johnson taking over April 4. However, Elijah Rhea Johnson has accolades of his own that prove he can indeed fill the opening and add his own flare to the role. During the workshop phase of MJ the Musical, Johnson helped develop the role of one of the two younger versions of Jackson before the show opened on Broadway. Johnson’s involvement in this phase, caught the eye of Christopher Wheeldon, the musical’s choreographer. He saw the potential in Johnson and now the two are working together once more!
Elijah Rhea Johnson is also talented musician and performer outside of his work the musical. Some of his past work includes being a lead performer in Kidz Bop and in the R&B boy band Mindless Behavior. This isn’t even his first timing performing in a musical. Some fans may recognize his name as Young Simba in The Lion King the Musical touring in the Vegas/National Touring productions.
MJ the Musical: The Story of Michael Jackson
MJ the Musical is a jukebox musical that tells of the life and times of the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson. Lynn Nottage wrote the book with the direction and choreography led by Christopher Wheeldon.
After it’s premiere, MJ the Musical has been a success at the box office and among critics. The production was nominated for 10 Tony Awards. That year, MJ the Musical won four awards, including Best Actor in a Musical for Myles Frost. Other Tonys include well as Best Choreography, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design.
The original cast recording was even Grammy nominated for Best Musical Theater Album. So far, the musical has grossed about $96.3 million, with a combined attendance of 665,000 people.
Where Can You Catch MJ the Musical?
MJ fans have a few options for catching this hit musical! The Broadway production will take place at Neil Simon Theatre, New York, NY. If you live in the United States, but can’t fly to New York? No problem! The North American Tour launches in August of this year. You can check on all the latest cities and tour dates on the official MJ the Musical website.
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