4 STARS, July 4-7. A fitting tribute to the king of pop, says Alison Hunt
Heading off with my son to watch Thriller Live at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking, I suddenly realised I didn’t actually know what to tell him to expect. Whilst many remember Michael Jackson as the biggest solo star since Elvis Presley, covering everything from disco and pop, to rock and R&B, it begged the question - how could 45 years of showbusiness be condensed into a two-hour show?
It didn’t take long to find out. Rather than try to cover everything in Jackson’s illustrious musical career, Thriller Live simply celebrates with a non-stop playlist of his highlights from his Jackson 5 days all the way up to ‘Bad’, released in 1987.
Interestingly, rather than feature one Michael Jackson look-a-like/sound-a-like, Thriller Live boasts a team of six vocalists who perform his classic hits either as an ensemble or individually. And they do an admirable job – vocals are incredible, with each performer adding their own unique Jackson-esque touch.
But of course, music is only part of the story – Jackson’s dancing and choreography were arguably even more ground-breaking and Thriller Live’s team of slick dancers don’t disappoint, flipping, high kicking and somersaulting around the stage – with one even delighting the children by doing the ‘Floss’.
Many early favourites feature in the first act, including I Want You Back, ABC and Blame it on the Boogie from the early days, to Rock with You and Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough from the ‘Off the Wall’ album. The songs are interspersed with narration regarding the King of Pop’s rise to fame and information on the many awards he received during his lifetime.
Act II is where we really reach the ‘Thriller’ album, with P.Y.T, Bille Jean and Wanna’ Be Startin’ Something being particular favourites, but the star of the show is of course Thriller, featuring the obligatory zombie dance. The show concludes with Bad and another rendition of Smooth Criminal.
All of the performers are bursting with energy and the songs are expressive and emotional. Adriana Louise in particular has an amazing voice and stage presence and Eddie Lima’s transformation into MJ himself is truly riveting, his moonwalking alone causing many screams of glee in the audience.
A special mention should be made of the band – an incredibly talented group of musicians who effortlessly supply the order of soul, disco and funk and even throw in a side order of guitar-led rock. The constantly changing LED laden set completed the atmosphere and impressed my son, especially when one dancer appeared to spray paint ‘Bad’ on a wall.
There are a few slightly awkward moments, such as when the audience is forced to its feet, but all in all `Thriller Live’ is great entertainment, celebrat ing a great back catalogue of music with some dazzling dancing to boot. Michael Jackson fans should moonwalk their way over to Woking as soon as possible.
Tickets: atgtickets.com
