‘High School Musical’ Director Tapped For Michael Jackson’s Concert
First Published: May 12, 2009 10:30 AM EDT Credit: Getty Images
Caption Michael Jackson announces plans for Summer residency at the O2 Arena at a press conference held at the O2 Arena on March 5, 2009 in London, EnglandLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Michael Jackson is reuniting with “High School Musical” director, Kenny Ortega for his series of London concerts this summer, Access Hollywood has learned.
Ortega, who has previously worked with Jackson during the “Dangerous” and “HIStory” tours, will create the overall design and direction for the upcoming “This Is It” concert shows.
“My answer without a beat was nothing could keep me away,” Ortega said of the phone call he received from Michael to lead the team. “Collaborating with Michael on the ‘Dangerous’ and ‘HIStory’ tours were two of the greatest creative experiences of my life, to be invited to partner with him again is a dream come true. Working with Michael is always a true and full partnership, he is a creative mastermind, he assembles top professionals to lead his team and then inspires each and every one of us to climb to new places, break out of the box and conquer new challenges. He is the most significant artist and entertainer of our generation.”
And according to Ortega, Michael’s new show won’t be just a concert.
“Our show goals are to create more than a concert but a complete theatrical musical experience with a dynamic balance that features Jackson in both spectacular production and intimate settings. The stage set, choreography, costumes, lighting, effects and overall production will be of the highest standard and pushing the state of the art,” he added.
Casting is said to be in the final stages for dancers and the band. Jackson’s “This Is It” concerts begin July 8.
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