After thrilling Aussies in its Sydney debut last year, the four-time Tony Award-winning MJ The Musical is finally coming to QPAC in March 2026!
Created by director and choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, MJ offers audiences a look into the legacy and artistry of Michael Jackson and revolves in particular around his legendary 1992 Dangerous World Tour, which catapulted him into unprecedented stardom.
Brought to Australia by leading producer Michael Cassel, alongside original Broadway producers Lia Vollack, John Branca, and John McClain, MJ’s Brisbane debut will mark the fifth production of the hit musical since it debuted on Broadway in 2022.
The global response to the musical has been one of universal praise, and the show has left audience after audience all over the world completely electrified, and with its world-class Australian cast, it is set to do the same for Brisbane.
The show’s lead is portrayed by outstanding talent Ilario Grant, and local legend Liam Damons will be opening the season in his own hometown as teen MJ. Some of the rest of the cast is filled out by Josslynn Hlenti Afoa as Michael Jackson’s mother, Conlon Bonner playing both Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones, Derrick Davis doubling as Michael’s father and his tour director, and Penny McNamee as an MTV journalist, among other incredible performers.
The musical has been seen by over 5 million people worldwide and received 10 Tony Awards nominations, winning four, including Best Choreography for the show’s creator, Christopher Wheeldon, and Best Actor in a Musical for the show’s original Broadway star, Myles Frost.
Although the show could’ve easily functioned as some sort of “greatest hits” compilation, it actually goes far beyond the signature moves and global hits, offering the audience a glimpse behind the curtain into the creative mind and collaborative spirit needed to put on a show of the scale of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, through the point of view of an MTV journalist granted 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.
But don’t worry, you’ll still get to hear some of your favourite Michael Jackson bangers, from The Jackson 5’s I Want You Back and ABC, to Beat It, Smooth Criminal, Thriller, Billie Jean, and more!
Practical information
MJ the Musical will open March 28, 2026 at the Lyric Theatre in QPAC.
You can sign up for the waitlist here.
Tickets will go on pre-sale from Monday, October 27, so be ready!