UK Theatre Network

Two days after attending the 1,000^th performance of Thriller Live I am still recovering from what has to be one of the most exciting nights of my life.

Michael Jackson may have left an incredible legacy in his music but this non-stop riot of music and dance certainly measures up to The King of Pop in terms of a blinding tribute.

From the moment eye-popping video and effects lit up the stage and a pulsating beat burst into life the audience went wild – and the evening just got better and better. By the second half we had been given glow sticks which we waved in the air as we whooped and danced out of our seats.

The energy generated by every single performer never once waned; it was full on from start to finish.

Not one person could be faulted in their capacity to deliver this high octane celebration of Michael Jackson’s life and work, from his early days as the child star of the Jackson 5 to Thriller and Bad. But there are always those who stand out from the crowd, and not least was East Ender James Anderson who, at just 12-years-old, already has the stage presence, voice and moves to be as great as Jackson himself. Bright, bubbly and with a winning smile, he was a revelation.

Looking uncannily like MJ himself, established singer and songwriter Britt Quentin helped hold the show together as narrator and one of five Michael’s, but the Michael with the grooviest moves was John Moabi, whose Moonwalk had me almost swooning in ecstasy.

Thursday’s show was made extra special with guest appearances by Blue, and Shaheen Jafargholi, whose appearance on Britain’s Got Talent prompted Michael Jackson to invite him to join him on tour. Instead, the then 12-year-old found himself singing at Jackson’s memorial service.

However good the performers, none of this slickest of shows would be possible without the superb band, headed by musical director John Maher. Their music got right into my soul and they deserve the highest of accolades.

Now I’m off to learn Moonwalking!

The Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue is taking bookings for Thriller Live until 22 January 2012. Booking: 0844 412 4661

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