As Broadway continues to struggle through a rough season because of the economy, news that the King of Pop is riding to the rescue could lift some spirits.
Superstar Michael Jackson is reportedly teaming up with Broadway royalty, the Nederlander family, for a musical version of his seminal ’80s extravaganza “Thriller.” The hit song from the eponymous album was made into a long-form music video, one of the most expensive at the time, which spoofed horror movies and contained ground-breaking dance choreography that is still emulated today.
According to the Associated Press (AP), producer James L. Nederlander has obtained the rights to make the musical, but the team of who will direct it, write the book, compose the score or choreograph the production has not yet been announced, nor has an opening date. Songs from the “Thriller” album and another Jackson hit, “Off the Wall,” will be included in the show.
The Nederlanders own nine Broadway theaters, including the venues that currently house Wicked and the Little Mermaid.
“I love the idea of making ‘Thriller’ a musical,” Nederlander told AP. Girl meets boy, they fall in love, boy has big secret, now what?”
A spokesperson for Jackson was quoted as saying, “The Nederlanders and Michael Jackson represent live theater and musical excellence, so let the music begin.”
