Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre Episode - "Why MJ is Closing... and What's Next? | Broadway Hit Ending Its West End Run with New Shows Coming"

Release Date: July 27, 2025

In this comprehensive episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre delves into the recent news surrounding the closure of MJ the Musical in London's West End, explores the underlying reasons for its departure, contrasts its performance with its Broadway counterpart, and speculates on future productions at the Prince Edward Theatre. Here's an in-depth summary of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. Announcement of MJ the Musical's Closure

Timestamp: 01:51

Mickey-Jo begins by addressing the news that MJ the Musical, after a successful run of nearly two years, will conclude its performances at the Prince Edward Theatre in London by February 28, 2026. He highlights the musical's global success, including its ongoing run at Broadway's Neil Simon Theatre and performances in Hamburg, Germany.

"Having run for just under two years, we're going to discuss the full details of the closure and what will have been achieved in that time." (01:51)

2. Analyzing the Press Release and Timing

Timestamp: 03:45

Mickey-Jo scrutinizes the official press release announcing the closure, noting discrepancies in the timeline. The press release initially suggested an extension, but Mickey-Jo uncovers that tickets were still available beyond the announced closure date, indicating a premature or strategic announcement.

"They send out multiple press releases when a show opens, but also when a show extends. And a little while ago this one was distributed. This was in fact back on the 25th of March..." (04:15)

3. Reasons Behind the Closure

Timestamp: 05:30

The host explores possible factors contributing to MJ's closure in the West End:

• Venue Size and Financial Viability: The Prince Edward Theatre boasts 1,727 seats, making it challenging to consistently fill such a large space. In contrast, Broadway's Neil Simon Theatre has a smaller capacity (~1,300 seats), which might contribute to higher occupancy rates there.

  "The Prince Edward is vast. It is a huge venue and has been a challenge for many previous shows to fill this space and enjoy extended runs." (10:05)

• Declining Popularity of Jukebox Musicals in the West End: Although MJ remains popular globally, jukebox biographical musicals in the West End seem to be losing their appeal. Previous shows like "Ain't Too Proud" and "Tina the Tina Turner Musical" also faced early closures.

  "One of the few clues that we have to rely on if we want to try and figure that out is the extent to which a show is discounting." (12:05)

• Michael Jackson's Legacy and Public Perception: Allegations and documentaries about Michael Jackson may have impacted the show's audience in the UK more than in the US, affecting attendance and overall reception.

  "His legacy as an artist has shifted in the face of allegations, in the face of documentaries..." (18:30)

4. Comparing West End and Broadway Performances

Timestamp: 14:45

Mickey-Jo contrasts the enduring success of MJ the Musical on Broadway with its relatively shorter run in the West End. He theorizes that differences in audience demographics, cultural sensibilities, and economic factors between London and New York contribute to this disparity.

"Is Michael Jackson just slightly more popular in New York than he is in London? These are the questions that I am wondering." (16:15)

5. Impact of Previous Productions on Current Closure

Timestamp: 20:00

The discussion touches on how previous Michael Jackson-themed productions, like "Thriller Live," which closed after an 11-year West End run, may have saturated the market, reducing the demand for a new MJ musical. This historical context suggests that the audience may not be willing to revisit similar themes repeatedly.

"Needless to say, certain shows only have so much appeal. And if you know another comedy show about Mormonism was to open in the West End, I dare say they might struggle." (22:10)

6. Future of Prince Edward Theatre

Timestamp: 21:26

Looking ahead, Mickey-Jo speculates on the next big productions slated to take over the Prince Edward Theatre. He hints at potential transfers of beloved Broadway musicals such as "Beetlejuice" and "Death Becomes Her," which could bring fresh energy and attract diverse audiences to the venue.

"Allegedly, Beetlejuice may be eyeing up the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End. I say allegedly and may because I have substantial reason to believe that Beetlejuice is definitely coming." (24:00)

He also discusses the possibility of staggered runs, where multiple large-scale productions could consecutively occupy the theatre, maintaining its status as a premier venue for blockbuster musicals.

"This might mean that Beetlejuice is going to be scheduled for around a year at the venue before this next show comes in." (26:15)

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: 28:17

Mickey-Jo wraps up the episode by expressing excitement for future productions while respecting the closure of MJ the Musical. He invites listeners to share their thoughts and stay connected for more theatre updates.

"With the utmost respect to the company and crew of MJ the Musical, inevitably in the next year, there is going to be a new show at the Prince Edward, most likely a big musical." (27:49)

"I hope that everyone is staying safe and that you have a stagey day." (28:17)

Key Takeaways:

• MJ the Musical is set to close its West End run at the Prince Edward Theatre by February 2026 after a commendable two-year performance.
• The closure may be attributed to the large venue size, declining popularity of jukebox musicals in the UK, and shifting perceptions of Michael Jackson's legacy.
• In contrast, MJ continues to thrive on Broadway, highlighting possible cultural and economic differences between West End and Broadway audiences.
• The Prince Edward Theatre is poised to welcome new, large-scale musicals, potentially including transfers like "Beetlejuice" and "Death Becomes Her," maintaining its prominence in the theatre scene.

Mickey-Jo provides an insightful analysis of the current state and future prospects of MJ the Musical in the West End, offering valuable perspectives for theatre enthusiasts and industry followers alike.