Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour came to Indianapolis' Banker's Life Fieldhouse, bringing numerous semi-truck loads of lighting, pyrotechnic and stage props. The Canadian-based circus extraordinaire combined its talents with the estate of Michael Jackson to bring to the stage one last over-the-top theatrical performance worthy of MJ's fans and his own standards.Did Jaimie King, concert director-choreographer for the likes of Madonna, Britney Spears and Celine Dion, present a show which satisfied the King of Pop's die-hard fans? Were the Cirque acrobats an addition or would the audience have preferred simply staying with a traditional tribute show? Relying on comments I overheard, the jury is still out.
Relying heavily on video imagery of the late iconic singer creates either a distraction or enhancement depending on the person asked. Song placement ping-ponged the mood throughout the show, rather than a climb and then gentle release of tempo, such as somber, "Have You Seen My Childhood," sliding into upbeat "Gotta Be Starting Something."
There was a surreal feeling throughout the performance, as if rather than a celebratory tribute to the iconic singer's accomplishments, we were treated to a video-funeral.
The performance brings many emotions to light, which I suppose is fitting, considering the subject matter.
Bottom Line: A bitter sweetness swept across the arena, refusing to leave the remainder of the evening. Cirque's IMMORTAL feels similar to Michael Jackson's life: talented, disjointed and fleeting.
For tickets, show times & information, visit
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.
