Michael Jackson musical confirmed, heading for Broadway

The long-rumoured Michael Jackson musical has been confirmed, with plans for it to open in Broadway in 2020.

A joint announcement by the Jackson estate and Columbia Live Stage said the still-to-be-titled project would be inspired by the late singer’s story and tap into his entire music catalogue.

It will be written by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, and directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon.

Nottage is the writer of Sweat, Intimate Apparel, ‘By The Way, Meet Vera Stark and Ruined.

Her works have looked at marginalised people living dramatic, lonely and often traumatic lives.

Her choice as writer suggests that the producers have no intention of having a fluffy job on the self-proclaimed King of Pop’s days.

However, it will be interesting to see how much of Jackson’s controversial life will be allowed.

Wheeldon, a resident choreographer of the New York City Ballet, directed and choreographed An American in Paris on Broadway

Despite the talent involved, let’s face it: the Jackson musical is already a hit: eccentric but gifted performer driven to superstardom, living a child’s dream, and a catalogue of genre-defining songs that were rhythmically built for scintillating dance moves. 

Michael’s is the latest rock performer whose song catalogue is heading to the world of musicals.

Joining current Broadway runs as Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, On Your Feet! (Emilio & Gloria Estefan), Escape To Margaritaville (Jimmy Buffett) and Summer (Donna Summer) will be those centred around INXS, Cher, Tina Turner, Alanis Morissette, Huey Lewis & The News and The Go-Go’s.