Billed as “A Tribute to Michael Jackson”, this show fits the bill. The focus here was largely on the songs, the vast majority of which were written and composed by Jackson (1958-2009) as well as performed by him. Tribute concerts – which is ultimately what this is – can be rather hit and miss, but this one, with Craig Harrison, known as CJ, at the helm, is lively and enthusiastic, recreating the sounds and movements of the King of Pop with seemingly boundless energy. As with almost any production, it takes a village to make it all happen, and CJ was careful to repeatedly acknowledge the onstage band as well as the dancers, and rightly so.
Still and moving images on a stage-wide screen enhanced the evening’s proceedings, and it was clear some considerable thought had gone into every aspect of the production. Costume changes were fast and frequent, and whenever CJ left the stage periodically, it was never for very long. These were full performances of Jackson’s back catalogue (I didn’t exactly have a stopwatch going, but many of them felt substantially longer than a chart music song would play on the radio), and the hardcore “Michael Jackson fans”, as CJ called them, knew exactly which song was beginning as soon as the band began playing it.
CJ’s rapport with the audience was as expected: after all, why go to a Michael Jackson tribute, concert, especially on a cold wintry January night, if you don’t enjoy his songs? This was, by all accounts, a respectable audience. A few momentarily got up and danced, though my own sightline was never obscured. Audience involvement (not the same as audience participation) was entirely voluntary, though most were obliging to clap along, wave their arms from side to side (not at the same time, of course), and even turn on the light function on their phones to create that rather magical effect when hundreds of smartphone lights are on at once in the same room.
The signature Michael Jackson moves were all there, and performed to an impressive standard, judging by the cheering and applause the ‘moonwalk’, the robotic movements and the ‘anti-gravity lean’ (yes, I looked that last one up) received. The sound balance between the vocals and the band was very good, and the choreography was a pleasure to witness. It’s difficult to say too much more without straying into spoiler territory. Suffice it to say, no complaints from me. Full marks for this thoroughly enjoyable night out.
Review by Chris Omaweng
Man in the Mirror is a brand-new must-see electrifying tribute concert to Michael Jackson from producers Entertainers.
Starring CJ, one of the world’s greatest Michael Jackson tribute artists and supported by a talented cast of performers and musicians who capture the essence of Michael Jackson’s unique style and charisma like no other, in this scintillating production will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Featuring all his greatest hits you know and love, including Thriller, Billie Jean, Beat It, Smooth Criminal, and of course, Man in the Mirror, with dazzling choreography, stunning visual effects, light show and authentic costumes. This is the show that pays tribute to Jackson’s musical legacy.
So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or experiencing the magic of Michael Jackson for the first time, get ready as we take you back in time, for a night like no other.
CJ as Michael Jackson
Holly Harrison – Choreographer and Dancer
Laura Summers – Dancer
Jess Kelley – Dancer
Georgia Dawes – Dancer
Nic Southwood – MD and Bass Player
Doug Jenkinson – Drummer
Lewis Wheeler – Guitarist
Chris Davies – Keyboards
MAN IN THE MIRROR
Churchill Theatre Bromley
19 January 2025, then continues on UK tour with dates booked (at the time of writing) until July 2026
