Broadway’s stories and extraordinary performances are a marvel to behold. Yet, it’s the dance, rhythm, and beat that bring these shows to life. The choreography sets the pace, embodies the energy, and communicates the emotion of a Broadway show. 

To truly appreciate the magic of choreography on Broadway, let’s delve into a show that epitomizes this extraordinary art form, MJ The Musical. This show allows us a closer look at how choreography can take center stage and captivate audiences. With a focus on the legendary moves of Michael Jackson, a figure synonymous with groundbreaking dance, MJ The Musical is the perfect example of dance on Broadway.

The evolution of dance on Broadway is a journey that reflects the shifting moods, styles, and influences of the times. The early 1900s saw Broadway predominantly influenced by vaudeville and burlesque styles, with dance serving as an entertaining interlude rather than an integral part of the narrative. However, later, dance began to be used more deliberately as a storytelling device.

A turning point in Broadway dance history was the arrival of Agnes de Mille, who revolutionized the role of dance in musical theatre with Oklahoma! by developing the narrative aspect of dance. Another pivotal figure in shaping Broadway dance was Jerome Robbins, whose work in West Side Story is still revered today. Similarly, Bob Fosse, with his signature jazz hands and sultry movements, brought a distinct style to Broadway dance, making it a spectacle in its own right. 

Choreography on Broadway is not merely about the physical movements. It is a language in itself, a means of conveying emotions, tensions, and relationships that words alone may not adequately express. When characters dance, they reveal facets of their personalities, desires, dreams, and fears in a way that is uniquely visceral and profoundly moving. A well-choreographed dance can elevate a scene, heightening its emotional resonance and leaving audiences deeply touched.

Not merely a biographical tribute, MJ the Musical explores the life and career of one of the most influential figures in the entertainment world. Michael Jackson’s impact on the music industry is universally acknowledged, but his influence extends well beyond that.

He was a trailblazer in dance, introducing movements and styles that continue to inspire artists across the globe. 

In MJ The Musical, dance takes on a role of paramount importance. After all, one cannot talk about Michael Jackson without talking about dance. His iconic moves, from the gravity-defying lean in “Smooth Criminal” to the unforgettable moonwalk, are an integral part of his legacy. 

The choreography in MJ The Musical is a celebration of Jackson’s unique dance vocabulary and an homage to his creativity and innovation. The dance sequences are meticulously choreographed to recreate Jackson’s legendary moves, capturing their essence while adding a touch of Broadway flair. At the same time, dance in MJ The Musical is not just about replicating Jackson’s moves. It is about using choreography to narrate his journey, express his emotions, and reflect on his struggles and triumphs.

The talented Tony-Award-winning Christopher Wheeldon, an acclaimed choreographer in the world of ballet who has moved to the Broadway stage, brings the choreography of MJ The Musical to life. Coming from the ballet world, Wheeldon had his worries about taking on the job since Michael Jackson was, of course, far from a ballet dancer. However, Wheeldon faced this challenge head-on. 

While working on the show, Wheeldon took a deep dive into Michael’s love for the silver screen of Hollywood, as well as classic musicals and Broadway. His passion for ballet, particularly his obsession with Baryshnikov, although not directly incorporated, deeply influenced Wheeldon’s approach. This fusion of voices and styles enables Wheeldon to add his unique touch to Michael’s iconic dance legacy, resulting in choreography that both honors and reinvents Jackson’s dynamic style.

Michael Jackson is played by Elijah Rhea Johnson, a gifted performer with impressive dance skills. Johnson not only embodies Jackson’s dance style but also captures his charisma and spirit, delivering a performance that is both enjoyable to watch and 

emotionally resonant. “The biggest thing I took away is the intention,” Johnson says. “Michael did all things with intention. Whether it was a dance move, a vocal run, a spin, a tip of the hat, etc. No moment was ever wasted. Everything was in service to the music, ideas, the feeling he wanted to invoke. I try to keep that in mind whenever I step on that stage and try to tell this very important story.” 

Working with choreographers Rich and Tone Talauega, Johnson found himself relearning many moves despite his initial confidence. “There were so many concepts and moves that I thought I knew that I had to completely start from square one and learn all over again,” he admits. “Our show is a hard one, especially when it comes to dance. But honestly, what stands out to me most is that, specifically, Rich and Tone both had no notes on my moonwalk! A lifetime MJ fan and dancer, that made me feel extra proud. It’s probably the only thing I brag about.”

MJ The Musical showcases Jackson’s iconic moves, pays homage to his creativity, and uses dance as a powerful storytelling tool. It is a testament to the enduring impact of Michael Jackson on the world of dance and shows us that dance is not just about the steps, but the story it tells. 

This sentiment is perfectly reflected in a critical musical number of MJ The Musical, the much-loved “Thriller.” The iconic song is known for its groundbreaking music video, which features a memorable dance sequence that has been recreated countless times worldwide. In MJ The Musical, the choreography for “Thriller” is a highlight, capturing the essence of the original while adding a Broadway twist. The sequence begins with a powerful ensemble performance, with dancers replicating the zombie-like movements from the original. As the song progresses, Johnson steps into the spotlight alongside Tavon Olds-Sample, who plays the younger version of Michael Jackson, and Austin Rankin and Eric Williams (alternating the role of little Michael). Together, these actors not only create a show-stopping musical number but also tell an important point of Michael Jackson’s story. 

Broadway dance is truly something to behold, and MJ The Musical, in particular, offers a remarkable opportunity to witness it in action. Whether you’re a fan of Michael Jackson, a lover of dance, or simply someone who appreciates good storytelling, this musical is a must-see. So, why wait? Step into the heart of New York, immerse yourself in the world of Broadway, and experience the sheer joy of Broadway dance.