After thrilling more than 6 million audience members worldwide, the countdown is officially on as MJ: The Michael Jackson Musical prepares to open in Perth next month.
Set in 1992, the musical offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Michael Jackson’s iconic Dangerous World Tour. The production goes far beyond the signature moves and global hits, inviting audiences to share in the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status.
The show is brought to life through the lens of an MTV journalist granted rare rehearsal-room access. MJ explores intimate moments from the complex history of Jackson’s life as he attempts to align the Dangerous World Tour to his creative genius.
Powerhouse performer Ilario Grant will lead the production as MJ, following acclaimed performances on Broadway and in the Australian premieres in Melbourne and Brisbane. Perth audiences are set to witness his electrifying performance alongside Australian performer Liam Damons as Michael in his teenage years.
Joining the Perth season is Kyle Lamar Mitchell stepping into the roles of Berry Gordy and Nick; and Sarah Morrison as MTV journalist, Rachel. Albany born and raised Tim Wright plays Michael’s Business Manager Dave and Subiaco resident G Madison IV, who hails originally from San Diego, plays Randy Jackson, the youngest Jackson brother.
Rounding out the cast is original Broadway company member, Oyoyo Joi as Michael’s mother, Katherine Jackson/Kate; Conlon Bonner playing the dual roles of Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones; J. Daughtry playing Michael’s father, Joseph, and his tour director, Rob; and Yashith Fernando as Alejandro.
The adult cast also features, Ceeko, Albanus Terry Strickland II, Luther Brooks IV, Beth Appiah Cain, Shewit Belay, Eric Boyd, Charlie Bryant, Liam Costello, Tevin Daniel, Xavier Gibson, Kalisha Johnson, Loredo Malcolm, David L. Murray Jr, Sebaga Neumann, Coby Njoroge, Warren Nolan Jr, Fletcher O’Leary, Brittany Page, Tigist Strode, Iris Wei, and Tavio Wright.
Since its Broadway debut in February 2022, MJ has become a global sensation, with acclaimed productions staged in London, Germany and across the U.S. Perth audiences will now have the chance to experience the must-see theatrical event as the final stop on the Australian tour.
Brought to Australia by leading producer Michael Cassel, alongside original Broadway producers Lia Vollack, John Branca, and John McClain, the Australian production of MJ premiered at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre on Saturday 8 March 2025 to roaring acclaim, with audiences on their feet for two standing ovations mid-show and a third at the curtain call. That same electrifying response followed in Melbourne and Brisbane, where audiences again rose to their feet three times in a single performance.
“Perth audiences are in for a truly special experience when MJ arrives at Crown Theatre. This show has captivated crowds around the world and now, as the final stop on the Australian tour, it is Western Australia’s turn to witness this global hit that has connected audiences across generations thanks to all the music we know and love,” said Michael Cassel.
Featuring more than 25 of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits – including Beat It, Smooth Criminal, Man in The Mirror and Thriller – MJ has captured the hearts and imaginations of packed houses around the world. Australian fans have gone wild for MJ, describing it as “the most incredible thing I’ve seen in my life” and “mind-blowing”.
The internationally renowned creative team for MJ also includes Scenic Design by Tony Award and two-time Emmy Award winner Derek McLane (Moulin Rouge! The Musical), Lighting Design by six-time Tony Award winner Natasha Katz (Once), Costume Design by Tony, Emmy, and most recently Academy Award winner Paul Tazewell (Hamilton, Wicked).
Sound Design by Tony Award and Olivier Award winning Gareth Owen (Come From Away), Projection Design by two-time Tony Award nominee Peter Nigrini (Dear Evan Hansen), Hair & Wig Design by two-time Emmy Award nominee Charles LaPointe (The Color Purple) and Make-up Design by Joe Dulude II.
Musical Supervision is by Tony Award nominee David Holcenberg (Matilda), and the Orchestrations and Arrangements are by David Holcenberg and Tony Award winner Jason Michael Webb (The Color Purple). Casting Director for the Australian Production is Lauren Wiley with Additional Casting by The Telsey Office (Rachel Hoffman, CSA & Lindsay Levine, CSA).
MJ: The Michael Jackson Musical will play Crown Theatre Perth from 6 June. Tickets now on sale. MJ: The Michael Jackson Musical continues at the Lyric Theatre – QPAC (Brisbane) until 24 May 2026. For more information, visit: www.mjthemusical.com.au for details.
Image: MJ The Musical – photo by Daniel Boud