THE idea behind Thriller Live has the potential to infuriate many hardcore Michael Jackson fans ready to blast anyone who dares try and step into the moonwalking shoes of their hero.

But this energetic hit West End show isn’t trying to outshine Jackson or his music, but merely celebrate it — which surely can’t be a bad thing.
Five lead vocalists pitched in to the eclectic set ranging from the Jackson 5 and The Jacksons material, right through his solo hits.

Singer Sean Christopher’s resemblance to Jackson — complete with gold glove, slightly shortened black trousers, white socks and moonwalkable shoes — is uncanny. Watching him dance — notably his solo of Billie Jean — would make many do a double take as to whether he is the real deal.

Cleopatra Higgins’s strong vocals took on a lot of the poppier, disco songs, such as The Way You Make Me Feel and I Want You Back, and succeeded in lifting the pace of the performance simply by walking on stage.

Tyrone Lee and Lascel Wood shared the bulk of the motown, disco and R&B vocals, which worked well — especially when in harmony Higgins, and Jesse Smith, with his hair reminiscent to that of someone in an ‘80s metal band, was the perfect choice to take on the heavier songs such as Dirty Diana.

The dance routines — namely Beat It, Smooth Criminal and Thriller — were impressive throughout from a tight support crew, and the attention to detail was second to none.

The LED backdrops help towards the overall show — especially when Christopher and his crew come out for a very impressive copy of Smooth Criminal, complete with THAT lean.

For those looking for a musical, it’s not really the right place. There is no narrative or story to the performance aside the occasional mention of Jackson’s legacy from Lee. The music does the talking.

But when that music is written by the “king of pop, rock and soul” (said Elizabeth Taylor) half the battle is already won.

The fact that five different singers were each taking turn to perform Jackson’s songs just proves how talented and diverse the man was, but it doesn’t take away the fun factor of Thriller Live.

No one is ever likely to emulate the levels of success which Michael did, but for those who want to experience an enjoyable, sing-a-long performance of his songs, Thriller Live is a very credible choice.

Thriller Live is at the Opera House in Manchester until Saturday, February 1.