So, you’re thinking about catching the show. Honestly, if you grew up with a "Thriller" poster on your wall or spent your childhood trying to master the moonwalk in your kitchen, the Michael Jackson Musical Detroit run at the Fisher Theatre is basically a mandatory pilgrimage. It’s one of those things where you think you know the story, but seeing it live hits different.
The Fisher Theatre, tucked inside that gorgeous golden-ceilinged building on West Grand Boulevard, has seen a lot of history. But bringing MJ back to Detroit—the city that basically birthed the Jackson 5 through the Motown machine—feels like a weirdly full-circle moment.
What is the actual plot?
Most people walk in expecting a "cradle to grave" biopic. It isn't that.
The whole show is framed around a specific moment in 1992. Michael is in a Los Angeles rehearsal studio, prepping for the Dangerous World Tour. He's broke (sorta), he's stressed, and he's being followed by a fictional MTV documentary crew.
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This setup lets the musical jump back and forth in time. You get the 1960s Motown era, the Off the Wall disco nights, and the Thriller madness, all while "Current MJ" is arguing with his tour manager about whether he can afford to set himself on fire during the show.
Why the Detroit stop is special
Let's talk about the Motown connection. When the actors playing the Jackson 5 start singing "I Want You Back," and they mention Berry Gordy, the Detroit crowd usually goes wild. There's a level of local pride in those seats that you just don't get in Chicago or New York.
The Fisher Theatre is also pretty intimate. Even if you're up in the balcony, you can see the sweat. You can hear the feet hitting the stage during "Billie Jean." It’s loud. It’s colorful. It’s a lot.
The "Toaster" and the Tour vs. Broadway
If you’ve seen clips of the Broadway production, you might be looking for the "toaster jump." That’s where Michael literally explodes out of the floor to start the show.
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Here’s the thing: Not every theater can handle a hole in the floor. For the Michael Jackson Musical Detroit tour, they had to get creative. Instead of coming from underground, the tour uses a specialized "box" system. It’s still cool, but if you’re a die-hard fan looking for that specific 10-foot vertical leap, just know the mechanics are slightly different on the road.
The cast is usually what makes or breaks this. Roman Banks was the first to lead the tour, and he was incredible, but the rotations change. You’ll likely see someone like Jamaal Fields-Green, who captures that weird, soft-spoken MJ "speaking voice" that can be a bit jarring at first until he starts dancing. Then, he’s a ghost of the man himself.
Real Talk: The Stuff People Argue About
Look, we have to address the elephant in the room. The musical—written by Pulitzer winner Lynn Nottage—stays away from the more controversial allegations.
It focuses on the music and the process. It deals with his "perfectionism" and his relationship with Joe Jackson. Some critics think it’s too soft on him. Others think it’s a brilliant look at how trauma fuels art.
What people usually get wrong: They think the show is just a tribute concert. It’s not. It’s a high-budget theater production with heavy themes about parental abuse and the price of fame. If you want a karaoke night, this might feel "heavier" than you expect.
Survival Guide for the Fisher Theatre
If you’re heading to the show, don't mess up the parking.
- Parking is included: Usually, your ticket to a Broadway in Detroit show at the Fisher includes parking in the garage or surface lot.
- The Metropolis System: They moved to a system where you have to register your plate online. Do it before you leave the house. Otherwise, you’ll be standing in the lobby frantically typing on your phone while the overture starts.
- Arrival Time: The Fisher Building is an architectural masterpiece. Get there 45 minutes early just to look at the ceiling and grab a drink.
The Setlist: What You’ll Actually Hear
You get the big ones, obviously. "Beat It," "Smooth Criminal," "Man in the Mirror."
But the "Thriller" sequence is the one everyone talks about. They don't just do the dance; they turn it into a nightmare sequence about Michael’s father. It’s dark. It’s effective. It’s probably the most "theatrical" part of the whole night.
Interestingly, some fan favorites like "P.Y.T." or "Remember the Time" are barely there or skipped. The show prioritizes songs that fit the "narrative," which means more focus on the Dangerous and Bad albums.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans
If you're planning to go, check the Broadway in Detroit official site first. Don't buy from those weird third-party "ticket reseller" sites that upcharge $200—the Fisher box office is usually the best bet for "real" prices.
Also, if you're taking kids, keep in mind the show is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes. It's recommended for ages 8 and up. There are some loud noises and strobe lights, especially during the concert scenes.
Before you go, register your license plate at the Metropolis parking portal to ensure you don't get a random ticket in the mail. Once you’re in your seat, just watch the feet. The choreography by Christopher Wheeldon is actually insane, and even if you aren't a huge fan of the story, the athleticism of the dancers is worth the price of admission alone.