Review: Cleo Higgins stars in Thriller Live at the Lyric Theatre

Thriller Live

Lyric Theatre

Reviewed on Thursday 26th June 2014

Although Thriller Live has been running in the West End for over five years and been seen globally by almost three million people, before last night I had never seen the show which pays tribute to the life and career of Michael Jackson.

Firstly, for those unfamiliar with the show, Thriller Live isn't a musical - it is a theatrical concert, and the best theatrical concert I have ever seen on a West End stage. The show reminds us just how many incredible songs Jackson released throughout his career, when you think about it his achievements and longevity are unbelievable. MJ fans will not be disappointed as all the biggest hits are featured throughout the evening. 

The show's structure is mostly smooth, although small sections of dialogue are slightly clunky. A small section of audience participation comes during the first act, but I think most people would be more willing to join in and give their all later in the evening, after interval wine has been consumed. 

The talents of the lead singers is unbelievable, I was completely blown away by their vocals. Former member of 90s pop group Cleopatra, Cleo Higgins (who recently appeared on The Voice) has made her West End debut in the production, following a stint in the musical's recent UK Tour. Higgins fearlessly storms the stage and effortlessly belts out Jackson's technically challenging songs. She works the crowd and owns her outrageously striking costumes.

The stand out performance of the night comes from Ricardo Afonso whose vocals are quite literally insane. Without doubt Afonso has the best rock voice in musical theatre and I would happily listen to him sing anything. The child playing the young Michael Jackson proved himself as the coolest cast member; he did his thing without a nervous bone in his body.

Bursting with colour, joy and respect, Thriller Live is fantastic fun. Featuring world class singing and choreography, the show remains in great shape and certainly leaves its audience buzzing. I dashed home to dig out my Michael Jackson King Of Pop deluxe album!

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

Thriller Live is currently booking at the Lyric Theatre until Sunday 19th April 2015.
Click here to book tickets (save £20 when booking top price seats at selected performances).

Photo Credit: Irina Chira

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