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The buzz surrounding MJ the Musical’s Australian premiere is deafening, and much of it centres on the monumental task of embodying the iconic Michael Jackson. But what goes on behind the scenes to achieve that astonishing transformation? We went backstage to meet the three incredibly talented actors – Roman Banks, Elijah Williams, and Devon Murrell – who share the role of the King of Pop, and discovered the dedication, training, and artistry involved in bringing this legend to life on stage.

Firstly, let’s acknowledge the sheer scale of the challenge. This isn't about mimicking a few dance moves; it’s about capturing the essence of Michael Jackson – his vocal nuances, his stage presence, his vulnerability, and his undeniable charisma. Roman Banks, who plays the older Michael, admits the pressure is immense. “It’s daunting,” he says, “but also incredibly exciting. You’re stepping into the shoes of a global icon. You have to honour his legacy while still bringing your own interpretation to the role.”

Elijah Williams, portraying Michael in his prime, echoes this sentiment. “The research was relentless,” he explains. “We watched countless hours of footage, studied his interviews, listened to his music, and tried to understand his mindset. It’s about more than just looking like him; it’s about *being* him, as much as possible.” Elijah’s energy and athleticism are key to delivering the high-octane dance sequences that are a hallmark of Jackson’s performances. He trains rigorously, blending contemporary dance with the unique style Jackson pioneered.

Then there's Devon Murrell, who tackles the younger Michael. His performance is a heartwarming and poignant reminder of Jackson’s early talent. “It’s a privilege to play this version of Michael,” Devon shares. “He was so full of dreams and passion. I try to channel that youthful energy and bring a sense of innocence to the role.” Devon’s ability to capture Michael's youthful exuberance is a highlight of the show.

But the journey isn’t just about individual talent. It's about collaboration and support. The three actors work closely together, sharing tips, offering encouragement, and pushing each other to be their best. “We’re a team,” Roman emphasizes. “We know we’re all representing the same person, so we want to make each other shine.”

The vocal demands are equally intense. Each actor spends hours honing their vocal technique, working with a vocal coach to replicate Jackson’s distinctive sound. The musical features some of Jackson’s greatest hits, and delivering them with authenticity and power requires immense skill and dedication.

So, is there a fear of being typecast? Roman acknowledges the concern. “If you believe I’m typecast, that's fair. But I see it as an opportunity to showcase my versatility and prove that I’m more than just Michael Jackson. I’m an actor, a storyteller, and I’m excited to explore other roles in the future.” His confidence is infectious, and it’s clear that these three performers are determined to leave their mark on the stage, both as interpreters of Michael Jackson and as individual artists.

MJ the Musical is a celebration of a musical genius, and the dedication of these three remarkable actors ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire audiences for years to come. Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary production – it’s a show that will leave you breathless and wanting more.