Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour
Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour was the first of two theatrical productions by Cirque du Soleil to combine the music of Michael Jackson with Cirque du Soleil's signature acrobatic performance style. The show was written and directed by Jamie King[1] and produced in partnership with the Estate of Michael Jackson.[2] The arena show—which is very similar to a rock concert—began its tour on October 2, 2011, in Montreal. After touring North America for one year, Immortal continued through Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East before returning to North America in February 2014 for a total of 501 shows from 141 cities. It is the most financially successful Cirque production and highest grossing tribute show in history.
Start date
October 2, 2011
August 31, 2014
4
- 227 in North America
- 18 in Latin America
- 85 in Europe
- 49 in Asia
- 22 in Oceania
- 401 Total
$371 million
By December 2011, just two months after it was launched, the show had sold over $100 million in tickets from US and Canada dates and became the top touring act in America, according to Forbes.[3] The tour wrapped in mid-2014 after amassing $371 million in revenue with ticket sales of 3.7 million from 27 countries[4] ranking the tour as the eighth highest-grossing tour of all time.[5]
Public reception[edit]
The show attracted numerous celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie,[6] Jay-Z, Beyoncé Knowles, Rihanna, Eva Longoria, Courteney Cox, Josh Groban,[7] Jennifer Lopez,[8] Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, the cast of Glee,[9] Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Cee-lo Green.[10]
Background and development[edit]
On November 2, 2010, Cirque du Soleil and Jackson's estate announced the development of The Immortal World Tour through Michael Jackson's official website. In a press release, the company stated, "A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael's creative world and literally turns his signature moves upside down, Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour unfolds Michael Jackson's artistry before the eyes of the audience. Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael's creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence, soul and inspiration of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that continues to transcend generations".[11]
Director Jamie King, who had previously spearheaded tours by Britney Spears (The Circus Tour), Madonna (Sticky & Sweet Tour), Celine Dion (Taking Chances World Tour) and Rihanna (Last Girl on Earth), stated that he wanted to include Jackson's "giving tree" as the focus of the tour.[12]
As noted during an interview with Daniel Lamare, within 24 hours of opening ticket sales for the show, Cirque du Soleil sold 200,000 tickets.[13]
Following the commercial and critical success of the show, a second Cirque du Soleil production based on Jackson's music titled Michael Jackson: One was developed for a permanent residency show at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. This second show opened in May 2013 to critical acclaim and commercial success.
Zaldy Goco, The Immortal's costume designer, said the following in regard to his inspiration for the collection of 252 costumes: "My approach has been to draw upon and respect Michael's iconic style while creating something new and fresh. I placed subtle references throughout the costumes in the show."[16] The color palette chosen for the show is rich, lively, and ornate such as through the usage of gold and crystals. The design team explored such technologies as 3D printing and LED lighting for the many different colored pieces.
Highlights of the costumes range from 3D printing techniques to pyrotechnics being built into the designs.[16]
The following songs were performed in the tour:[21]
*Also includes: "Goin' Back to Indiana" / "Rockin' Robin" / "I Got the Feelin'"