The baddest show on the Strip is actually ridiculously good. Michael Jackson ONE takes all your favorite aspects of Cirque du Soleil and kicks them up a notch with the gloved one’s biggest hits. Chart toppers like “Bad,” “Beat It” and “Billie Jean” take on a new life in this show full of the acrobatics Cirque is known for, plus some of the most creative staging to showcase Jackson’s memorable music.
The preshow sets the tone with a nod to the paparazzi who were a big part of hyping the King of Pop’s career. Guests then follow a foursome who are exploring Neverland as they’re led on an adventure by Jackson’s signature accessories—his fedora, glasses, glove and shoes. The glove comes alive as it takes over those who wear it and sucks them into Michael Jackson’s mesmerizing world. Think Addams Family’s Thing, but with bling.
Though all the Cirque shows have fabulous soundtracks, this ONE is the perfect fusion of music you know and love with stunts you can’t believe you’re seeing. Given Jackson’s famous dance moves, the choreography is, of course, impeccable, accentuated by impressive costumes including suits with screens displaying words meaningful to Jackson.
State-of-the-art surround sound, including speakers built right into the seats, provides a fully immersive experience to take in every exhilarating note of these award-winning songs. The music fills the theater as the action fills the stage from side to side and top to bottom. Wherever you look, your senses will be bombarded with laser lights, Gumby-like aerialists and dancers whose limbs appear to be spring-loaded.
The show’s moonwalking pop-and-lock specialist contorts his body in a way so fluid you’ll swear the music is literally moving through him. Jugglers in another scene give a whole new meaning to “hat trick” as they toss fedoras with unbelievable synchronization. It’s mesmerizing.
If you’re wondering how this show is going to top the already cinematic epicness of the “Thriller” music video, rest assured it’s mission accomplished. The fully immersive number features elaborately costumed creatures dancing in the aisles and bouncing around the stage on massive trampolines. “Thriller,” indeed.
One of the most unique and distinctively Cirque acts takes place on what look like giant rubber bands. Talented acrobats spring on and off of the trampoline/tightrope hybrid bands with incredible precision and awareness of each other. They make the bands their dance partners, delicately landing and propelling themselves back up into the air.
Though Michael Jackson embraced a blingy, over-the-top style, it’s the more understated acts in this show that have an unexpected impact. Videos from yesteryear show touching performances from Jackson’s childhood of fan favorites like “I’ll Be There.” Another scene takes the art of shadow puppetry to an extreme level with an act that will leave you asking, “How’d they do that?”
Hearing all his hits from talented Cirque musicians and singers will make you wish Jackson himself was there. While that’s not possible, you’ll be treated to the next best thing as a moonwalking hologram of The King of Pop dances his way through “Man in the Mirror.”
Mandalay Bay, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Thurs.-Mon., starting at $69 plus tax and fee. 702.632.7580
