REVIEW: Thriller Live - Liverpool Empire Theatre

Thriller Live exploded onto the stage of the Liverpool Empire theatre this evening. Now in it's 8th year and direct from the West End, the two and a half hour production is a showcase of the musical hits spanning the career of the legendary King of Pop Michael Jackson. The late singer songwriter was honoured in exceptional style. The cast paid homage to the magnificent artist by presenting a jam packed sequence of live performances of the stars music. As the title suggests, the performances featured songs from the eight times Grammy award winning albums (including 1982 Thriller) as well as numbers from when he was a member of The Jackson Five.

From the outset, the audience was wowed with exceptionally strong vocals and corresponding choreography of equal calibre. With four lead vocalists and a troupe of performances, the show is high energy and serves as a heartwarming summary of the talented stars work. Whether you are a die- hard MJ fan or a regular listener of his music, you will recognise his signature moves and sound and marvel at his genius. It is a credit to the cast as they portray the dynamic energy of the King of Pop convincingly and with finesse.

Lead Vocalist - Angelica Allen

The opening track "Don't stop 'til you get enough" introduces the lead vocalists to the audience, The live band were magnificent however for the first track, the high bass levels slightly drowned out the crispness of the vocals. This was soon rectified and subsequent tracks seemed more balanced.The vocal range of each of the Leads was impressive. The lead vocalists were Angelica Allen, Adam J Bernard, Sean Christopher and Shaquille Hemmans Bright lights flashed into the audience dramatically at the finale of the first track and the audience responded with rapturous applause. The level of audience participation was high throughout and was actively encouraged by the leads.

Sean Christopher - Lead vocalist wowed the audience with his execution of The King of Pop's signature choreography

The choreography was outstanding throughout, Sean Christopher's dance solos were magnificent and collectively the cast performed cohesively and with precision. "Dirty Diana" and "Smooth Criminal" were particular favourites of mine. The man of the show from my perspective was Wirral born Rory Taylor. If you closed your eyes, you would think that Michael Jackson was re-incarnated. It was as if Taylor was channelling the legend. There were many goose bump moments during his performances. Whilst Sean Christopher bears a striking resemblance to MJ aesthetically, Rory Taylor resembles him vocally. It is uncanny.

Adam J. Bernard - Lead Vocalist

The stage was simple in construct but effective, it housed the band beneath a metal platform. The lighting was fabulous, the use of pyrotechnics and graphics projected on a big screen added to the drama of the production. There are many superlatives to describe the show. It was worthy of the standing ovation it received at the finale and t was amazing, intricately choreographed and vocally stunning.

Not to detract from the performances of the other lead vocalists. I loved the energy and passion of Adam J Bernard and Shaquille Hemmans. Their stage presence was second to none and their vocals undeniably strong. Kudos to the talented performers and their highly talented female counterpart Angelica Allen.

Rory Taylor - Lead vocalist

It is an electrifying review of the King of Pop's sterling 45 year career and includes much loved songs such as "I want you Back, They Don't Care about us, Can you feel it?, Billy Jean, Dirty Diana, Thriller of course and many more.

Shaquille Hemmans - Lead Vocalist

You'll be thrilled with this performance of Thriller Live, you'll be on your feet dancing and your feet will be tapping throughout. You won't stop until you get enough. Preare to be uplifted and to smile throughout. The show runs at the Liverpool Empire until Saturday 16th April. Tickets can be purchased here

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Rating - 5 Stars - Must see