MJ – The Musical at James M. Nederlander Theatre

Chicago, Illinois welcomes "MJ: The Life Story of Michael Jackson" this summer. The musical delivers a moving narrative, framed around the rehearsals for Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour. The show takes audiences back in time, flashing back to Jackson’s family life with the Jackson 5 and tracking his rise to worldwide stardom.

Throughout the performance, the musical examines Jackson’s deepest relationships, focusing on influential people like his father, Joe Jackson, and the challenges brought by intense media scrutiny at a formative stage. Jackson’s relentless pursuit of perfection shapes the narrative, revealing the man behind the celebrity image of the King of Pop.

More than just a tribute concert, this Broadway show provides a fully developed theatrical experience. Audiences will witness dozens of Jackson’s hits and dance routines that capture his unmistakable style.

Michael’s performances, including his legendary moonwalk and other iconic steps, are beautifully recreated through Tony Award-winning director Christopher Wheeldon’s stunning movement. Rich + Tone Talauega, two of Jackson’s former collaborators, helped shape the performance’s movements to reflect Jackson’s unique rhythm.

Elijah Rhea Johnson stars as Michael Jackson, delivering a portrayal that goes beyond impersonation, capturing the essence of the King of Pop. Johnson’s portrayal covers different stages of Jackson’s life, revealing the brilliance and vulnerability that shaped the artist.

The musical’s supporting performers brings richness to the production, depicting Jackson’s family members, industry figures, and key moments with genuine emotion.

The event’s stage elements, paired with the show’s lighting and sound, secured multiple Tony Awards, including Best Choreography and Best Sound Design, establishing it as a theatrical phenomenon.

Since its debut in NYC in 2021, "MJ: The Life Story of Michael Jackson" has won over audiences, earning critical acclaim and attracting theatergoers from around the world.

After captivating Broadway audiences, "MJ: The Life Story of Michael Jackson" embarked on a highly anticipated national tour. The move to take the show on the road was a exciting one, that is now allowing fans from across the country to witness the magic beyond Broadway.

The first stops included major cities like Chicago, IL, and Atlanta, GA, where the musical continued to draw full houses. The production’s ability to replicate the Broadway experience on the road has impressed theatergoers, with performances maintaining the same vibrancy and precision as those on the New York stage.

With additional stops upcoming in cities including Chicago, Illinois, MJ continues to expand its reach across the U.S., bringing the story of the King of Pop to new audiences nationwide.

Tickets for "MJ: The Life Story of Michael Jackson" are available from just $102, and will go quickly. Whether you’re reliving the music from your youth or discovering his legacy for the first time, this show offers an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and storytelling. Find out first-hand what major reviewers are calling an unmatched homage to one of history's most iconic performers.

Join us at Nederlander Theatre at Ford Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday 31st August 2025 and experience this celebration to the life, artistry, and influence of the King of Pop!