The musical fantasy world of Michael Jackson was revived Sunday when Cirque du Soleil’s “Immortal World Tour” tribute to the pop idol made its global premiere in Montreal.
A colorful range of special effects, stage smoke and video clips combined with dynamic dance routines like those that the “King of Pop” was renowned for in a spectacle estimated to have cost $60 million to bring to life.
The show was attended by Jackson’s three children, his mother Katherine and three of his brothers, and attracted fans from across Canada and the United States.
“I have been a fan of Michael’s since I was 12, so that is 30 years,” said Suzy, a Canadian who traveled from northeastern Ontario for the performance.
Another fan, named Arthur, said the late star’s music had transcended the impressive choreographed routines performed on stage. “The acrobatics were good but I did not really need them,” he said. “The music filled my body.”
The set design was dominated by pictures and videos of children and images of “Neverland”, Jackson’s massive ranch and former home in California, and a large tree.
The show is directed by choreographer Jamie King, a close associate of Madonna who has also worked with singers Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.
After a long tour in Canada and the United States, the “Immortal World Tour” is expected in 2013 to perform in Europe and around the world.
The show is taking place while in Los Angeles the star’s doctor, Conrad Murray, is on trial over Jackson’s death on June 25, 2009, from an overdose of the powerful sedative propofol.
Jackson had been rehearsing for a series of comeback shows in London in the days and weeks before he died.