‘Live’ Jacko musical experience

IMPERSONATOR: Las Vegas showman Kenny Wizz in a scene from the Michael Jackson History ll Show.

Arts writer

A MUSICAL biography of Michael Jackson’s life will be staged at the Artscape Opera House from October 10 to 28. The Michael Jackson HIStory II Show, a new production that has recently taken New Zealand by storm, features MJ impersonator Kenny Wizz as the moonwalking superstar.

Together with a live band and fully choreographed dancers, HIStory II hopes to bring fans what they want, but can never see again – a real-life Michael Jackson concert.

The production will take fans right back to the Jackson 5 era, through a thrilling journey to the current decade. Hit after hit will tell the story of one of the greatest pop icons the world has ever known, featuring over 20 songs performed by Wizz. He remains dedicated to championing the genius of Jackson, and HIStory is the result of more than two decades perfecting “the art of sharing MJ”.

Wizz was shattered by Jackson’s death and at the time closed down his act in Las Vegas, despite calls from fans to continue. He said: “It’s more difficult because my act is observed through a microscope now he’s gone – people want the closest thing possible.”

Jackson, repeatedly described as a musical juggernaut, had an influence on popular culture that remains almost unparalleled. Beside his inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Hollywood Walk of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame, he held 13 Grammy awards and 26 American Music Awards including “Artist of the Century”.

Jackson’s hits include songs such as ABC, Ben, Smooth Criminal and Beat It.

These and many more will be performed on the upcoming HIStory impersonation tour, providing a live experience that is otherwise unattainable.

Despite his untimely death in 2009, Jackson’s popularity continues to grow.

l Performances are Wednesdays to Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm and Sundays at 6pm. Tickets are R125 to R290. To book, call Computicket on 0861 915 8000.