The spirit of Michael Jackson is alive and well in Sin City. Cirque Du Soleil practically own the strip right now, with countless mind-blowing productions playing at many of the major casinos.
However the partnership between the Estate of Michael Jackson and Cirque is a match made in heaven. The collab has been a huge success, with two unique productions – a touring show and a spectacular Vegas residency. We caught the touring show Immortal when it was in Sydney a decade or so ago and have wanted to see the residency, ONE since it opened back in 2013.
The show is so popular that it’s performed twice a night at Mandalay Bay. Seeing the first audience absolutely buzzing as they filed out of the venue, we couldn’t help but feel excited about what we were about to witness.
Walking into the theatre, we were in awe as we looked at the artefacts on display, including the original Smooth Criminal costume (with the mannequin in the lean pose), signed records, the sequinned glove, bedazzled socks, concert memorabilia – all instantly recognisable.

Specially designed MJ cocktails flowed at the bar, and as we took our seats in the lavish theatre we were wowed by the size and scope of the stage and surrounding video screens.
The whole production is a totally immersive experience. Before the show even started, red-coated paparazzi swarmed around the theatre, shouting and snapping photos of attendees. The photos then flashed up on the huge video screens, on magazine covers with fake tabloid headlines. Genius!

The show makes full use of MJ’s music and aesthetic, with countless iconic moments and songs intertwined with fresh and original Cirque magic – an incredible fusion of acrobatics, dance and live music. Driven by Michael’s incredible songs – heard in full stadium concert mode, ONE takes the audience on a wild ride through his magical and creative spirit.
The production comes from an all-star creative team. The show was written and directed by Jamie King – Madonna’s director on all of her world tours over the past 20 years. The musical director is Kevin Antunes – who was one of MJ’s musical directors, and the costumes are from Zaldy – who creates all of RuPaul’s iconic looks.

With a cast of 63 performers, the audience is treated to spectacular aerialists, hip hop dancers, acrobatics, and the most incredible pole dancing you’ve ever seen. The show is equally exciting and emotional, nowhere more than during Man In The Mirror when a hologram brings him back to the stage. The show is majestic, playful, magical and heart-warming.
Experience the magic of MJ all over again and plan a trip to Vegas to see ONE. For more info visit:
www.cirquedusoleil.com/michael-jackson-one and
www.mandalaybay.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/michael-jackson-one.html
