A thriller of a musical is coming to town, as the national tour of “MJ: The Musical” comes to Kansas City’s Music Hall May 7-12, showcasing the music and artistry of Michael Jackson. 

Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, “MJ” is set during rehearsals for Jackson’s 1992 “Dangerous” World Tour, and takes the audience on a journey through Jackson’s rise and reign as the King of Pop. 

“MJ” premiered on Broadway in 2022 and won four Tony Awards for choreography, sound design, lighting design and best actor for the lead role. Roman Banks assumes that mantle for the year-long national tour, playing Michael Jackson at the height of his powers. Banks was the first Black actor to play the emotionally complicated Evan in “Dear Evan Hansen” on Broadway and previously guest starred in the Disney+ show “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.”  

Banks says he got into Broadway from watching a bootleg copy of “Hamilton” and seeing a place for himself within musical theater culture. Banks, who now counts “Hamilton” star Leslie Odom Jr. as a mentor, says he grew up listening to the Jackson 5 and relishes the opportunity to play such a talented and complex musician. 

“I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever portray my musical hero and in such an in-depth way,” says Banks. 

The role of MJ requires meticulous attention to detail because Michael was a noted perfectionist. Banks says he undergoes rigorous physical training to maintain the stamina required for embodying Jackson’s electrifying dance moves for two hours and 45 minutes a show. By striving for perfection, Banks says he’s dedicated to delivering performances that honor Jackson’s legacy with authenticity and passion.

“No one will ever be able to replicate Michael,” says Banks. “I just try to be a vessel of the energy he brought and work as hard as I can to bring his artistry to the stage.”

The show covers over 25 songs from Michael Jackson’s catalog, from “Beat It” and “Billie Jean” to “Bad” and “Black or White.” Banks says he feeds off of the energy of the crowd and his favorite number changes often but currently he’s particularly fond of “Human Nature.” 

“Come ready to experience radical joy,” says Banks. “Michael’s music holds that quality to it, and our cast does a beautiful job of bringing such a fresh spirit of joy to the stage.”

‘MJ: The Musical’ Showtimes

• Tue., May 7 at 7:30 p.m.
• Wed., May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
• Thu., May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
• Fri., May 10 at 7:30 p.m.
• Sat., May 11 at 2 & 7:30 p.m.
• Sun., May 12 at 1 & 6:30 p.m.

Tickets from $49 at bit.ly/MJatMusicHall