Okay, it looks like the Broadway machine has officially jumped the shark. It is bad enough that revivals have become de riguer these days. If it isn’t that they’re adapting a hit movie into a stage play. But folks are shelling out $100 plus a ticket to see The Little Mermaid, Shrek and Mary Poppins. Now the Nederlander Organization, a big Broadway outfit, has acquired the rights to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and will produce a musical based upon the once groundbreaking music and video.
Don’t get me wrong, I was mesmerized by that 13 minute video when it was first released. But I am wondering where the actual story is going to come from? Apparently, songs from his Off The Wall album will be used as well. I’m still not getting it.
But maybe I’m thinking too hard about this because it is obvious Michael needs the money. His Vegas comeback never materialized, he nixed that reunion tour with his brothers, and he had to settle that lawsuit with the Sheik from Bahrain. Plus, he no longer owns Neverland outright. So let’s just say he is cash poor (because he still owns the rights to the Beatles songs). Wouldn’t it be a trip if he planned to star in it? Or would it be downright scary or heartbreaking to recall the Michael that was?
But truthfully, based on current Broadway fare, if the production is mounted a la the hits Jersey Boys and Mama Mia—where it is more about the music and less about the story— the Thriller musical might actually have a chance. I guess I am starting to convince myself. I wouldn’t mind singing along to some good music for a couple of hours after all.
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January 27th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Like you, I think most of the 80s teen generation were mesmerized by the music video. This is why I think it is a bad idea to try and create a musical about it. People don’t like that kind of change. If they aren’t used to it, they won’t like it. I have a feeling the ratings are going to fall.