Like The Immortal World Tour, the production was written and directed by Jamie King,[1] but only uses prerecorded tracks, with no live orchestra. One evokes the entertainer's artistic style in several ways and is the most dance-driven Cirque du Soleil show.
It was announced to the public and media on February 21, 2013,[2][3] began previews on May 23, 2013, and held its official world premiere on June 29, 2013, at the Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. Marketing efforts in 2013 included the release of "sneak peek" videos of several production numbers, including "2 Bad", "Stranger in Moscow", "Bad", and "Smooth Criminal". Michael Jackson One has grossed over $500 million as of 2021, with 5 million tickets sold by 2023, making it one of the successful Cirque du Soleil productions of all time. [4][5]
The show
The show's plot is centered on four "misfits" who set out on a journey into Michael Jackson's world and music. By journey's end, they personify Jackson's agility, courage, playfulness and love. These values are represented with his white gloves, white socks and black shoes, hat and sunglasses.
Each of four main characters receives an object from Jackson. First, Clumsy is given the shoes, and with his newfound balance, performs a double slackline act to "Bad." Next, Shy overcomes her name when she receives Jackson's glasses, and she vanquishes a troupe of warriors in a martial arts display set to "2000 Watts" and "Jam." Then, Smarty Pants, the de facto leader of the four, puts on Jackson's hat and is imbued with the artist's legendary gracefulness in "Smile." Finally, Sneaky, the troublemaker, performs a playful manipulation act with the rogue glove to "This Place Hotel" and "Workin' Day and Night."
Characters
Michael Jackson - the misfits' spirit guide
Mephisto - the antagonist who represents the paparazzi and tabloid media
Clumsy - the misfit who gains balance with Jackson's white socks and black loafers
Shy - the misfit who uses Jackson's sunglasses to overcome her introversion
Smarty Pants - the de facto leader of the misfits; uses Jackson's fedora to display gracefulness
Sneaky - the troublemaking misfit who performs a playful manipulation act using Jackson's sparkly glove
Various villains - opponents whom the misfits encounter and must defeat to complete their adventurous journey
Warriors - The heroes of the show who use white jackets and white fedoras to defeat Mephisto
