Michael Jackson ONE opened at Mandalay Bay in 2013, two years after another Michael Jackson Cirque show (Immortal) toured the world. Where Immortal traveled, ONE found a permanent home in Vegas, becoming one of the most successful residencies in Cirque’s portfolio.
The show isn’t a biography or a tribute in the traditional sense. It’s an immersive experience that uses Jackson’s music, philosophy, and iconic imagery as foundation for acrobatic storytelling. Rolling Stone called it “a virtual parade of ‘wow’ moments,” which underscore both the spectacle and the substance.
The Creative Concept
ONE follows four misfits (Clumsy, Shy, Smarty Pants, and Sneaky) who discover Michael Jackson’s spirit and message through their adventures. They face antagonists led by Mephisto, representing the forces that tried to control or diminish Jackson during his life.
The narrative framework provides just enough structure to connect musical numbers without constraining the performance. You can follow the characters’ journey or simply enjoy the music and acrobatics. Both approaches work.
Jackson’s spirit appears throughout the show, represented through video, hologram-like projections, and performer embodiment. It’s handled respectfully, never feeling exploitative or cheap. The technology serves the artistic vision rather than existing for novelty.
The show’s message about uniqueness, acceptance, and breaking boundaries reflects Jackson’s own philosophy. “Everybody is equal and unique” becomes the thesis that ties diverse elements into cohesive whole.
The Music Takes Center Stage
Jackson’s catalog provides the soundtrack, performed by live musicians and vocalists. The arrangements honor the original recordings while adapting for theatrical context. Purists might prefer the studio versions, but the live performance energy creates different value.
The show includes obvious hits like “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” “Bad,” and “Beat It.” But it also features deeper cuts and lesser-known tracks, creating journey through Jackson’s entire career. Hardcore fans appreciate the breadth while casual listeners get the songs they know.
The audio quality is exceptional. Mandalay Bay spent significant money on the theater’s sound system, and it shows. Every note, every beat, every vocal nuance comes through with clarity impossible in many venues.
Musicians are visible throughout the performance, positioned on stage levels where audiences can watch them work. This transparency about the live performance element adds authenticity missing when recorded tracks dominate.
The Acrobatic Performances
Cirque’s signature circus arts adapt to Jackson’s music and themes seamlessly. A hand-to-hand balancing act performs to “Man in the Mirror,” embodying the song’s message about self-reflection and change.
The “Smooth Criminal” sequence features dancers executing the iconic lean while surrounded by acrobats performing impossible moves. The choreography references Jackson’s original while expanding it through Cirque’s vocabulary.
Aerial straps artists perform during “Earth Song,” creating visuals that evoke environmental themes from the track. The movements are beautiful and technically demanding, requiring strength, flexibility, and artistic interpretation.
A Russian bar routine (where performers flip and launch from a flexible bar held by others) explodes with energy during uptempo numbers. The height performers achieve is staggering, with flips and twists executed seemingly effortlessly.
The Visual Spectacle
The theater incorporates massive LED screens and projection surfaces that create immersive environments. During “They Don’t Care About Us,” the screens fill with images of crowds and protests, amplifying the song’s social message.
Costume design by Zaldy Goco captures Jackson’s fashion influence while serving acrobatic requirements. Performers wear outfits referencing iconic Jackson looks (the fedora, the sequined glove, the military jackets) adapted for movement demands.
Lighting design by Patrick Dierson uses the full spectrum to create atmosphere and focus. During intimate moments, light narrows to spotlight performers. During explosive sequences, the entire theater becomes part of the show.
The staging includes a massive moving screen called the “MJ Frame” that reconfigures throughout the performance. This element allows quick scene transitions and creates different stage pictures without requiring curtain drops or blackouts.
Choreography and Dance
Jamie King choreographed the show, bringing deep understanding of both Jackson’s movement vocabulary and Cirque’s acrobatic requirements. The fusion feels natural rather than forced.
Several sequences recreate famous Jackson choreography while adding acrobatic elements. “Thriller” includes the zombie dance most people know, but performers also execute flips and tricks impossible in the original video.
The dance ensemble includes performers trained in Jackson’s specific style. They don’t impersonate him but rather embody his movement philosophy. It’s homage through interpretation rather than imitation.
Contemporary dance sequences blend with traditional Jackson moves, creating evolution that respects the past while pushing forward. This balance between preservation and innovation runs throughout the show.
The Theater Experience
The Michael Jackson ONE Theatre at Mandalay Bay seats approximately 1,800 people. The configuration puts everyone relatively close to the action despite the size.
Pre-show begins with music and atmosphere building before the main performance. The theater feels alive rather than waiting to be activated. By the time the show starts, you’re already immersed.
The 90-minute runtime flies by. Pacing keeps energy high without becoming exhausting. Quieter moments provide emotional beats rather than dead space.
The surround-sound system creates audio that moves through the space. During “Billie Jean,” you hear elements of the song coming from different directions, creating three-dimensional sound impossible in stereo playback.
Who This Show Appeals To
Michael Jackson fans obviously form the core audience. If you grew up listening to his music or appreciate his artistic legacy, ONE delivers fan service while creating something new.
Cirque enthusiasts get world-class acrobatics set to familiar music. Even without Jackson connection, the circus elements justify attendance for anyone who appreciates physical performance.
Casual Vegas visitors looking for solid entertainment find accessible show that requires no specialized knowledge. You don’t need to be superfan to enjoy the music and spectacle.
Families can attend together, though very young children might get overwhelmed by the volume and intensity. The show works for ages 5 and up with parental discretion.
Ticket Pricing and Availability
Standard tickets start around $99, with premium seating reaching $250 or more. VIP packages add perks including merchandise and priority services.
The show typically performs Thursday through Monday at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM. Dark days (Tuesday and Wednesday) allow for performer rest and theater maintenance.
Mandalay Bay’s location at the southern end of the Strip makes it slightly less convenient than center-Strip properties, but not prohibitively so. Most hotels are within reasonable cab or rideshare distance.
Booking in advance ensures better seat selection. Weekend shows sell out regularly, particularly during high-traffic Vegas periods like conventions and holidays.
Comparing to Other Cirque Shows
ONE differs from other Vegas Cirque productions through its celebrity focus. While other shows create original concepts, ONE builds around established cultural icon.
The music provides immediate accessibility other shows lack. Most audiences already know the songs, creating instant connection impossible with original compositions.
The production values rival anything else in Cirque’s portfolio. The custom theater, advanced technology, and performer quality match their best work.
The Jackson Estate Partnership
The show operates with full cooperation from the Michael Jackson Estate, ensuring authentic representation of his legacy. This partnership provides access to footage, music, and creative guidance.
The estate’s involvement adds legitimacy that tribute shows cannot match. This is official Jackson content rather than unauthorized interpretation.
Proceeds partially benefit Jackson-related charities, adding philanthropic dimension to commercial entertainment. Attendance supports causes Jackson championed during his life.
Behind the Creative Process
Creating ONE required years of development and hundreds of hours reviewing Jackson’s work. The creative team studied every video, concert footage, and interview to understand his artistic vision.
Performers go through extensive training in both Cirque techniques and Jackson’s movement style. The combination requires months of preparation before appearing in shows.
The show has evolved since opening. New technology gets integrated, choreography gets refined, and performers bring fresh interpretations. It’s living production rather than museum piece.
Key Takeaways
Michael Jackson ONE succeeds by respecting Jackson’s legacy while creating something new. It’s neither pure tribute nor complete reimagining but rather thoughtful synthesis of both approaches.
The combination of familiar music with world-class acrobatics creates unique value. You get Cirque-level performance quality with soundtrack you already know and love.
The theater’s technical capabilities enhance the experience significantly. The sound system, video technology, and stage mechanics are all state-of-the-art.
This works as both celebration of Jackson and standalone entertainment. Even people unfamiliar with his music can appreciate the production values and performances.
Important Notes
The show includes loud music and intense visual effects. People sensitive to sound or prone to seizures from flashing lights should consider these factors.
Photography and video recording are prohibited. The estate and Cirque strictly enforce this policy to protect the show’s commercial value and artistic integrity.
The emotional content might affect Jackson fans deeply. The show honors his life and legacy, which can create powerful responses from longtime followers.
The Verdict
Michael Jackson ONE delivers exactly what it promises: a spectacular celebration of the King of Pop’s music and message filtered through Cirque du Soleil’s artistic lens.
The show justifies its ticket price through production quality that exceeds most Vegas entertainment. Every element reflects significant investment and artistic intention.
For Jackson fans, this is essential viewing. The show captures his spirit and philosophy while creating fresh experience rather than simple recreation of his work.
For general audiences, the combination of familiar music and extraordinary acrobatics creates accessible entertainment that doesn’t require specialized knowledge or interest.
The show’s longevity (over a decade since opening) validates the creative approach. Audiences continue filling the theater night after night, suggesting the appeal extends beyond initial curiosity.
If you’re planning a Vegas trip and enjoy Michael Jackson’s music even casually, ONE deserves consideration. It’s not the cheapest show in town, but the value delivered matches the price asked. You’re getting professional production at the highest level, honoring an artist who himself demanded perfection in performance.
Relevant Links:
– Official Michael Jackson ONE Website: cirquedusoleil.com
– Mandalay Bay Entertainment: mandalaybay.mgmresorts.com
– Ticketmaster: ticketmaster.com
– Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas: cirquedusoleil.com
– Michael Jackson Official: michaeljackson.com
