MJ The Musical finds its lead for Melbourne production

A Broadway star will take on the King of Pop for performances across September.

It’s not all moonwalking and hip thrusts; embodying Michael Jackson is so much more. There’s the smooth subtly of his movements, the crisp and cool stage presence, the gentle demeanour off stage, and of course the dynamite dynamic of his vocals. Michael Jackson was a born star, one who continued to evolve and change from his family band, Jackson 5, through to his mega successful solo career.

Australian producer Michael Cassel, alongside original Broadway producers Lia Vollack, John Branca, and John McClain had no easy task of casting the King of Pop in for the Melbourne run of award-winning MJ The Musical, and they are struck gold with their lead. Broadway star Ilario Grant has been announced as Michael Jackson.

MJ The Musical

Where: Her Majesty’s Theatre, 219 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000
When: From 9 September 2025

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A powerhouse performer, Grant takes on the iconic role of MJ at Her Majesty’s Theatre following acclaimed performances on Broadway and in Sydney, where he captivated audiences as both MJ and Michael.

The Australian premiere season marks the fifth production of the global sensation since its Broadway debut in February 2022. With celebrated runs in London, Germany and across the US, Melbourne is the next city set to experience the must-see theatrical event of the year.

The cast also sees Brisbane performer Liam Damons reprising his role in Melbourne as Michael in his teenage years, with the stageshow making the performers professional debut. Josslynn Hlenti Afoa, Conlon Bonner, Derrick Davis, Rob; Yashith Fernando, Wonza Johnson, Tim Wright and Home and Away star Penny McNamee all take on major roles in the productions various key players in the life-telling of Michael Jackson.

 

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The rest of the adult cast is completed by Ceeko, Albanus Terry Strickland II, Beth Appiah Cain, Shewit Belay, Martha Berhane, Eric Boyd, Charlie Bryant, Liam Costello, Xavier Gibson, Kyle Kavully, G Madison IV, Loredo Malcolm, David L. Murray Jr, Sebaga Neumann, Coby Njoroge, Warren Nolan Jr, Fletcher O’Leary, Brittany Page, Dustin Praylow, Tigist Strode and Iris Wei.

Set in 1992, MJ offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Michael Jackson’s iconic Dangerous World Tour. The production goes far beyond the signature moves and global hits, inviting audiences on to share in the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status, brought to life through the lens of an MTV journalist granted rare rehearsal-room access. From the mind of two-time Pulitzer Prize winning Lynn Nottage (Ruined, Sweat), MJ explores intimate moments from the complex history of Jackson’s life as he attempts to align the Dangerous World Tour to his creative genius.

Tickets are now on sale for the Melbourne season, kicking off 9 September at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne. All ticketing information can be found here.