Michael Jackson ONE is more about getting the audience to dance and clap than gasp and hold its breath. The show is a change of pace for Cirque du Soleil, emphasizing choreography over high-risk stunts, although there are plenty of acrobats. Elaborate stage routines, often based on the visuals in Jackson's groundbreaking videos, are set to the singer's own remixed and mashed-up recordings—with a touch of live vocals and guitar.
The storyline follows four central characters, who take inspiration from the late star's iconic imagery. The hard part is separating Jackson's artistry from the controversies of his personal life. The show responds by vilifying the media with paparazzi characters taking monster form for a Halloween-inspired "Thriller" number.
Bubbles the chimp doesn't make an appearance, but the bones of the elephant man do. (A reference anyone who followed Jackson's tabloid coverage will recognize.) Ultimately, the show works best when the music is front and center, especially during the snow and rain of "Stranger in Moscow," the rhythmic lights of "Billie Jean" and the uplifting lyrics of "Man in the Mirror" and "Black or White"—all proof that Jackson's musical legacy is easier to defend than his personal one.
Mandalay Bay, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Sun.-Mon. & Thurs.-Sat., starting at $69 plus tax and fee. 702.632.7580
