is MJ The Musical Appropriate for Kids

Loop MJ the Musical dives into the preparation leading up to Michael Jackson’s “Dangerous” tour. During rehearsal, Jackson encounters flashbacks as he prepares himself and his band, dancers, and singers during a grueling rehearsal. A camera crew from MTV arrives at the rehearsal hoping for an interview with the great pop star.

Before seeing the show, all I knew was that the musical was about Jackson’s life, which was enough for me to want to see the Broadway show. The actors put on a brilliant performance, slipping between periods of Jackson’s life. For instance, the actor that plays Michael Jackson’s father, also plays his manager. One of my favorite aspects of the show was watching the actor slip between being a domineering father during the early years to being a supportive manager during the later years.

The actor that plays Michael Jackson has a tall task and must be exhausted at the end of each night. There are 3 actors that play Michael at different stages of life. The actor playing the older MJ dances and sings to exhausting measures and puts on a fabulous performance.

The lighting is some of the best I’ve seen on Broadway and mixed with smoke makes for incredible visuals. A performance of Thriller, that I don’t want to give away, has stayed with me long after seeing the show.

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I thoroughly enjoyed the show, and it was a great way to spend a couple of hours in New York City.

If you are taking kids, there are some things to consider:
Michael Jackson’s controversy with children isn’t talked in detail and only alluded to, which might bring up some conversations later about what happened if you believe the allegations or not.
Child abuse is a big theme throughout the show and Michael’s relationship with his father makes up a central story line.
During the Thriller performance, the costumes and choreography might scare some younger kids.
There are only a couple of curse words in the show.
Sex is alluded to a couple of times, but nothing is shown or talked about.
The show is recommended for ages 8 and up.