Michael Jackon's brother, choreographer talk Cirque show coming to Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH,None — Cirque du Soleil's "Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour" will be in Pittsburgh April 13-15.  Click here for ticket information.

On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of talking to Jackson’s brother, Jackie Jackson, and his longtime choreographer and friend, Travis Payne, about the Cirque show.

I told them that this interview was extra special for me because Michael Jackson is my all-time favorite performer.  Like many, I grew up listening to him, and he inspired me.  I just loved him.

Payne choreographed the “This Is It” planned concert series until Michael Jackson’s death and said he’s honored to still be working on the King of Pop’s projects.

“It was really an honor to work with Michael since 1992 and get my start actually with his sister, Janet.  I have just loved the Jacksons since the time I was a child and was always inspired by what they did as entertainers and how they changed the entire history of music.  So, to stay involved this many years and pass on the information, as Michael would say, to the next generation of performers who have been assembled for this show was an honor and pleasure,” said Payne.

“Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour” features more than 60 international performers and is described as a riveting fusion of visuals, dance music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael Jackson’s creative world.

“There are over 30 great music hits -- many of Michael’s and many of the Jackson’s.  It’s just a tribute to their brilliance.  It’s great to be able to immortalize Michael in this way and have all of his great dance moves as well as some new surprises, with acrobatics and gymnasts from around the world and many of the original musicians,” said Payne.

Jackie Jackson and his family have been to the show several times.

“Travis did a wonderful job choreographing the show.  It’s amazing.  Very colorful.  The costumes are great.  There’s a lot of dancing, so bring your dancing shoes.  Everyone is dancing in the audience,” said Jackson.

Maybe we’ll see Michael Jackson’s children dancing in the Pittsburgh audience.

“My mom has seen the show many times.  So have the kids, and believe me, they might be in Pittsburgh.  You never know,” said Jackie Jackson.

I asked Jackie Jackson, “What would Michael think about the show?”

“He would give it a thumbs up because Michael loves a lot of glitz and glamour and a great production,” said Jackie Jackson.

WPXI