THRILLER Live

THRILLER Live is thrilling indeed. Non-stop music, fabulous dance and sophisticated technical effects combine in a superb production.

There is no ‘story’ as such. Instead, the show is a celebration of the journey through pop to rock and soul to disco that Jackson undertook during his life and that he performed so uniquely.

The early days dominate the first half, with Jackson 5 hits and some fun audience participation. After interval, Jackson’s spectacular later times come to the fore, from when he hit the world stage as a sophisticated adult performer with his album Off The Wall and moving into the super-successes of Thriller and Bad.

Directed and choreographed by Gary Lloyd, THRILLER Live does not attempt to impersonate Jackson and his family, although there are moments when it comes eerily and often movingly close. Performing Jackson’s characteristic dance moves, the UK’s Sean Christopher creates a presence so like the late superstar it is uncanny. His moonwalk, during Billie Jean and other numbers, brought the house down.

A number of international lead vocalists star in the show, with Australia’s Prinnie Stevens (The Voice) among them. The USA’s Samantha Johnson was a magnificent female lead vocalist on the night I attended.

Other standouts are Australia’s MiG Ayesa and the UK’s Alex Buchanan, but it is almost impossible to single anyone out, such is the ensemble work of vocalists and dancers in the show. Songs and dance moves are wonderfully performed, from the poignant She’s Out Of My Life, to the fabulous Beat It and of course, those trademark Thriller zombies.

The performers are supported by a fine band, under the Musical Direction of John Maher, who is also Head Arranger. A guitar solo is a standout.

Technically, THRILLER Live excels; a fantastic set, superb video effects, giant mirror ball and more.

For me, it was terrific to see the very young enjoying the show. Near me, a boy and his sister, neither older than ten, enthusiastically copied all the Jackson moves, complete with reproductions of Michael’s famous hat and glitter glove.

THRILLER Live is not only for dedicated Michael Jackson fans, but for everyone who appreciates a top-notch production.

This show is slick, sexy and sensational. Don’t miss it.

Lesley Reed