Broadway's MJ The Musical celebrated Halloween October 31 with a special, one-night-only finale at the Neil Simon Theatre: a rendition of the Michael Jackson classic "Thriller," featuring the choreography from the classic music video as well as never-before-seen costumes, lighting, and projections.
In addition to dozens of audience members dressed as MJ, also attending was Ola Ray, who co-starred in the original "Thriller" music video, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this month.
“For me, ‘Thriller’ has always been the pinnacle of Halloween. Growing up as a Michael Jackson fan I couldn’t imagine a Halloween without it,” said Tony winner Myles Frost, who stars in the title role, in an earlier statement. “That being said, this year we’re going to make Halloween extra special in a way that only MJ can. You better get ready for a spooky good time! Trust me—you won’t want to miss this!”
"Thriller" is included in the new musical each night; however, the staging features Christopher Wheeldon's Tony-winning choreography.
MJ features a book penned by two-time Pulitzer winner Lynn Nottage (Ruined, Sweat) and direction and choreography by Royal Ballet Associate Artist Wheeldon (An American in Paris).
The biomusical began previews on Broadway December 6, 2021, and officially opened February 1, 2022. It went on to take home four 2022 Tony Awards.
The show's director-choreographer Wheeldon took home Best
Choreography, while Frost won Best Performance by an Actor in a
Leading Role in a Musical, Natasha Katz won for Best Lighting Design of a
Musical, and Gareth Owen won for Best Sound Design of a Musical.
The show's creative team also features Tony- and Emmy-winning scenic designer Derek McLane (Moulin Rouge! The Musical), Tony- and Emmy-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell (Hamilton), Tony-nominated projection designer Peter Nigrini (Dear Evan Hansen), and Emmy-nominated hair and wig designer Charles LaPointe (The Color Purple). Musical supervision is by Tony nominee David Holcenberg (Matilda), with orchestrations and arrangements by David Holcenberg and Tony winner Jason Michael Webb (The Color Purple).
For more information, visit MJTheMusical.com.