It takes the creative genius of Cirque du Soleil to resurrect the spirit of the King of Pop.
In a dazzling stage show that includes acrobatics, illuminated costumes, pyrotechnics and performers dangling from the rafters, Michael Jackson’s Immortal World Tour pays homage to Jackson’s expansive library of music and dance.
“It’s an amazing way to continue his legacy,” said Maxime Charbonneau, a spokesman for Cirque du Soleil.
The production, conceived before Jackson’s ultimately death in June 2009, is a partnership between the French Canadian circus troupe and Michael Jackson’s estate.
Jackson long had admired Cirque du Soleil’s creativity and artistry, visiting the company’s headquarters and attending many of their touring and permanent shows, Charbonneau said.
“He always had a lot of respect for Cirque du Soleil,” he said.
Cirque du Soleil already has shows featuring the music of The Beatles and Elvis Presley, but this is the first time they’ve developed a rock concertlike touring show. They’re playing about 55 North American cities before moving on to conquer Europe and Asia.
By 2013, Cirque plans to produce a second Michael Jackson show that will be permanently installed in Las Vegas.
The nearly two-hour-long concert features about 50 of Jackson’s songs from his early years with The Jackson 5 to songs he wrote toward the end of his life.
A 12-person live band accompanies recordings taken from Jackson’s musical vaults.
“They isolated Michael’s voice in every single song,” Charbonneau said.
Many of the performers are Jackson veterans, people who toured with Jackson during his lifetime.
The choreography team, too, is made up of people who worked closely with Jackson. The dance moves will be recognizable to Jackson fans: shoulder rolls, leans, crotch grabs and the famous moonwalk.
Added to Jackson’s songs and dance is Cirque du Soleil’s colorful costumes and acrobatics.
Charbonneau said Jackson fans will love the concert for the memories, while Cirque du Soleil fans will experience a different kind of performance.
The Michael Jackson Immortal World Tour is scheduled for 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, KeyArena, 305 Harrison St., Seattle.
Tickets are $50 to $250 at www.ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.
Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3447; jholtz@heraldnet.com.
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