Las Vegas is a city built on spectacle, where every night offers a new reality-defying experience. Yet for over a decade, one show has consistently captured the electric energy and creative soul of an icon: Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil.
This isn’t just a tribute show; it’s a full-body immersion into the world of the King of Pop, blending his timeless music with the breathtaking acrobatics that only Cirque can deliver.
But in a city with endless entertainment options, is ONE the one for you?
This complete guide will walk you through the entire experience, from the music and visuals to the practical tips you need to know, to help you decide if this show deserves a spot on your Las Vegas itinerary.
Key Takeaways
- What It Is: An electrifying, immersive resident show at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, created by the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil.
- The Experience: It masterfully combines Michael Jackson’s original hit recordings with world-class acrobatics, cutting-edge visuals, and a state-of-the-art sound system featuring speakers in every seat.
- The Verdict: An absolute must-see for any Michael Jackson fan. It is also highly recommended for fans of Cirque du Soleil and anyone looking for a high-energy, visually spectacular production suitable for families with older children.
- Practical Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows or holidays, as it remains one of the most popular shows on the Strip.
What Exactly Is Michael Jackson ONE?
It’s Not a Musical, It’s a Cirque du Soleil Spectacle
First, let’s clarify what this show is not. It is not a traditional jukebox musical with actors playing Michael Jackson and singing his songs live. Instead, Michael Jackson ONE uses the original master recordings of his voice to score a breathtaking visual and acrobatic performance. It’s a living music video where the story is told through dance, acrobatics, and stunning stage effects.
The Concept: A Journey into the Creative World of Michael Jackson
The show follows four young misfits who stumble upon magical items left behind by Michael: a sparkling glove, a pair of black loafers, a fedora, and sunglasses. These artifacts guide them on an inspirational journey through his music, as they embody his signature agility, courage, playfulness, and love.
The Experience: Why This Is a Must-See for MJ Fans
The Acrobatics: Gravity-Defying Feats Set to Classic Hits
Imagine acrobats performing a gravity-defying slackline routine during “Billie Jean” or aerialists soaring through the air to “Dirty Diana.” Cirque du Soleil’s world-class performers bring a new physical dimension to the music, with acts including trampolining, bungee arts, martial arts, and incredible synchronized dance numbers.
The Music and Sound: A State-of-the-Art Audio Experience
The show takes place in a custom-built theater designed for total immersion. With nearly 5,800 speakers installed throughout, including three in every single seat (at your shoulders and headrest), you don’t just hear the music—you feel it. The crispness of the vocals and the thump of the bass are unparalleled.
The visuals: Holograms, Projections, and Iconic Dance Moves
The stagecraft is stunning. The show utilizes massive LED screens, intricate projections that interact with the performers, and clever illusions. A highlight for many is the “Man in the Mirror” sequence, which features a remarkably lifelike hologram of Michael dancing alongside the cast.
The Setlist: What Songs Can You Expect to Hear?
While we won’t spoil every surprise, the setlist is a dream for any fan, packed with some of the biggest hits in music history.
- Beat It
- Billie Jean
- Black or White
- Dirty Diana
- Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
- Man in the Mirror
- Smooth Criminal
- Thriller
- Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
Your Practical Guide to Seeing Michael Jackson ONE in Las Vegas
Location: Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas
The Michael Jackson ONE Theatre is located inside the Mandalay Bay Resort, which is at the south end of the Las Vegas Strip (3950 S Las Vegas Blvd). Plan for a bit of a walk or a tram ride if you are staying mid-Strip.
Showtimes and Current Schedule (2025)
The show schedule can vary, but a typical week in 2025 looks like this. Always check the official website for the most current times before booking.
| Day | Showtimes |
| Sunday | 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM |
| Monday | 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | DARK (No Show) |
| Thursday | DARK (No Show) |
| Friday | 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM |
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How to Buy Tickets and What to Expect to Pay
It is highly recommended to buy tickets directly from an official source to avoid inflated prices and ensure legitimate seats.
Ticket prices generally range from $79 to $180+ (in USD) before taxes and fees, depending on the seating section and date.
Show Duration and Age Recommendations
The show runs for 90 minutes with no intermission. The official age recommendation is for guests 5 years and older. Note that the show is very loud and features intense visuals and pyrotechnics, which may be overwhelming for very young children.
Insider Tips for the Best Show Experience
Arrive Early to Enjoy the Preshow Entertainment
Get to the theater lobby at least 20-30 minutes before showtime. The pre-show atmosphere is fun and interactive, with characters dressed as paparazzi roaming through the crowd, creating a fun photo op and building excitement.
Choosing the Best Seats in the Theater
Honestly, there are no truly “bad” seats in this custom-built theater.
- For the best overall view of the entire stage and aerial acts, choose seats in the center of Sections 202, 203, or 204.
- For a more intimate experience where you can see the performers’ expressions up close, seats in the front of Sections 102 or 103 are excellent.
How Does ONE Compare to Other Michael Jackson Shows?
Some fans may remember the arena show Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour, which ended its run in 2014. While that show was a massive, concert-style production, ONE is a much more theatrical, intimate, and story-driven experience designed specifically for its permanent Las Vegas home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Michael Jackson ONE a musical or a concert? Neither. It’s a resident Cirque du Soleil production that uses MJ’s original music as the soundtrack for incredible acrobatic and dance performances.
- Is the show appropriate for kids? Yes, for most children aged 5 and up. However, parents should be aware of the loud volume and occasional intense sequences (like the “Thriller” part).
- Is there a dress code? No, there is no formal dress code. Standard Las Vegas “casino casual” attire is perfectly acceptable.
- Can I take pictures or videos during the show? No. Like most Las Vegas shows, photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during the performance.
The Final Verdict: So, Should You Go?
This checklist should help you make your final decision.
You should absolutely go see Michael Jackson ONE if:
- [✔] You are a Michael Jackson fan of any level.
- [✔] You love the spectacle and artistry of Cirque du Soleil.
- [✔] You are looking for a high-energy, visually stunning show that will leave you feeling uplifted.
- [✔] You want a family-friendly (for ages 5+) show that has broad appeal.
You might want to reconsider if:
- [✔] You are expecting a traditional musical with live singing and a linear plot.
- [✔] You or your children are very sensitive to loud music, flashing lights, or theatrical smoke effects.
Conclusion
Michael Jackson ONE is a triumph of entertainment and a worthy tribute to the King of Pop. It successfully avoids feeling like a simple cover band show, instead using the unparalleled artistry of Cirque du Soleil to create a living, breathing celebration of Michael’s creative spirit. It’s a joyous, thrilling, and often emotional journey that brilliantly captures the magic of its namesake. For almost any visitor to Las Vegas, the answer is clear: yes, it’s worth it.