There’s a genuinely special moment in Michael Jackson ONE that revolves around the use of a hologram. It comes toward the end of the Cirque du Soleil production (we won’t spoil it by telling you which song it occurs in), but the effect is palpable. No matter what your opinions of the King of Pop might be, you’re sure to get lost in this moment. You really, if only for a single, solitary moment, think Jackson is actually, physically, onstage. It’s a brilliant capper to what’s already an incredible show.

But I’m getting way ahead of myself. (Sorry, it’s just the way that sequence makes me feel. My bad.) 

This production is part tribute show, part spectacle that Cirque is well-known for, and part emotional journey. It tells the story of a group of “Misfits,” each representing an aspect of Jackson’s essence, who are pursued by bad guys throughout the show, in the process embarking on journeys of self-discovery. Not coincidentally, there are four iconic elements of Jackson’s image—a hat, sunglasses, pair of shoes and a spangled glove—that come into play during the course of the show.

All of Jackson’s immortal songs are played during ONE and, for each one, characters from the songs—or ones inspired by them—come to life. You’ll see trampoline artists, synchronized dance routines, performers descending from the ceiling, comedic interludes and, yes, the undead walking during “Thriller.” There’s also a segment that pays tribute to Jackson’s younger days as a member of the Jackson 5. Don’t be surprised to find yourself getting emotional as “I’ll Be There” plays, accompanied by some of the profound words he had for the world are displayed.

Few entertainers throughout history are as polarizing as Jackson. And that’s understandable. But, as this show clearly demonstrates, as long as his music remains available for us to listen to, it’s hard not to listen.

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