During his lifetime, Michael Jackson exuded a childlike wonder, an attitude that proved infectious for his millions of fans. That same sense of wonder pervades each and every second of Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay, a celebration of The Gloved One’s music, legacy, philosophy and persona, achieved through a combination of dance, acrobatics, special effects, comic performances and, especially, music.

The show is a series of vignettes tied together loosely by four young “misfits” who are pursued by baddies as they attempt to “save” Jackson’s music, rushing in and out of segments, sometimes participating in the activity onstage, from bungee acrobatics during “Beat It” to some hilarious pantomime as Jackson’s glove seemingly comes to life during “Working Day and Night.”

Elsewhere, there’s so much to look at and enjoy while looking forward to the next Jackson number—from dancers who come to electric life through the use of LED costumes during “Billie Jean” and trampoline artists who appear to defy gravity during “Thriller” to incredibly synchronized dance routines to both “They Don’t Care About Us” and “Smooth Criminal” (And, yes, that famous “lean” makes an appearance during the latter song, and yes, it’s electrifying.)

Sprinkled through these bits are pictures of Jackson throughout the various stages of his life and career, coupled with the music he was performing at the time—“I’ll Be There” as a member of the famed Jackson 5 is particularly affecting—and profound words he had for the world.

The action climaxes in an amazing hologram sequence, with Jackson appearing alongside the misfits for a performance of “Man in the Mirror,” disappearing at key moments and reappearing at others; it’s a sobering reminder that Jackson is no longer with us, but the entire production is a reminder that the impact of his music will continue to touch and inspire generations of fans.

Mandalay Bay, 702.632.7580

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