Thriller Live Liverpool Empire
Michael Jackson may not be everyone's taste, but what cannot be denied is the breadth of his songwriting talent. And with his trumpeted imminent return to the British stage, this show could not be more opportune.
This is demonstrated at full volume at the Liverpool Empire brought to you by Director and producer Adrian Grant and Flying Music.
However, the show, which has high energy and some superb moments, has something seriously lacking. The set is minimalistic and seems lost on such a large stage, and Jackson's immense talent deserves more than a string of hits linked together with minimal narration and some backdrop filmic images.
The 15-strong cast sing and dance their hearts out, and all the hits are there, bringing the audience, on occasion, to their feet. One feels if the show was not so long - two hours - and more concentrated, then the impact might be greater.
It all kicks off with a tribute to the Jackson five with little Michael (Tyler McLean) squeaking out early hits I want you Back, Music and Me and ABC. Though cute and appealing in his afro wig, at times he was off key, which detracted from the overall effect.
However, what is brilliant in this production is the choreography and the skill of the rubber-jointed dancers. The scenes are edgy with break dancing and typical Jackson dance moves, including the world famous moonwalk which brings cheers from the audience.
The song Thriller was spectacular with ghoulies and ghosties dancing in unison with Michael, superbly sung and danced by Michael Anthony Duke. Other notable scenes included the thumping and soul invasive Billy Jean, Beat It with street dancers and graffiti background, and Smooth Criminal - in a speakeasy - all bringing the audience to their feet, singing and dancing along to the driving sounds.
Lead singers, Peter Murphy, Hayley Evetts, Jag Soulsinger and all play their part. Evetts has a sexy presence with a rich mellow voice, hitting the high notes a tad shrilly at times, whilst Murphy has a voice to die for. Jag Soulsinger is rapidly making a name for himself as an r&b singer-songwriter and was a tour de force in this production. They all shine in both the urgent and the more mellow numbers, including Earth Song and Feed the World which slow the pace down, giving the vocalists a chance to demonstrate their versatility.
The 6-piece band is ensconced behind a mesh shield onto which are projected the many images of the Jackson years. You can barely see them, but boy, you know they are there. Their music is one of the best bits of this show. A tight ensemble they blast out the Jackson sound in all its glory.
This show is edgy, inventive, with many costume changes and a plethora of Jackson hits. Jackson fans will love it.
Rating: 6/10
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