On Saturday, Aug. 27, the Estate of Michael Jackson teamed up with Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil to launch a three-day birthday celebration for the King of Pop, who would have been 58 years old, Aug. 29.
To kick off the festivities, members of the Estate unveiled an iconic piece of Michael Jackson memorabilia, thrilling guests as they revealed the legendary white-and-blue pinstriped suit and matching white fedora famously worn by Jackson in the short film for “Smooth Criminal.”
“Smooth Criminal,” the sixth of nine short films to be produced by the King of Pop for recordings from Bad—one of the best-selling albums of all time—was a masterpiece, winning both the Critic’s Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award. It was in “Smooth Criminal” that the singer debuted one of his most recognizable dance moves—the anti-gravity lean, a seemingly impossible physical feat.
The unveiling ceremony took place in the Michael Jackson ONE Theater lobby, where guests mingled with cast members, representatives of the Estate, ONE musical director Kevin Antunes, choreographers for the show Rich and Tone Talauega and more during an exclusive meet-and-greet. Guests reveled in the opportunity to witness the live reveal, commemorating the special moment by taking photos and leaving their birthday wishes for Michael at a specially created video booth.
During his extraordinary career, Michael Jackson sold more than a billion records worldwide, released 13 No. 1 singles and became one of a handful of artists to be inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His artistry, choreography and music continue to inspire generations of pop, soul, R&B and hip-hop artists and fans. Michael Jackson is the greatest entertainer of all time, which fans can witness when they see Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil.
“Michael was truly an extraordinary individual whose talent, passion and love still lives on today,” said Jerry Nadal, Senior Vice President, Resident Shows Division at Cirque du Soleil. “Michael’s music is a testament to his amazing spirit, thus, it is with great pleasure that we, together with the Estate of Michael Jackson, host the fourth annual King of Pop birthday celebration here at Michael Jackson ONE. Thanks to the Estate, we can celebrate his birthday in true Michael Jackson-style as we unveil another remarkable piece of Michael Jackson memorabilia.”
The costume becomes the fourth piece of memorabilia on loan from the Estate of Michael Jackson at Mandalay Bay.
More pictures of the MJ Birthday Bash:
