ONE LOVE IN VEGAS

In honor of Michael Jackson’s birthday on Thursday, Cirque du Soleil and the late artist’s estate gave fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the hit show Michael Jackson ONE.

Among the treats they experienced were the chance to watch cast members go through their intricate rehearsal process, including a run-through of “Beat It” with choreographers Rich and Tone Talauega, who illuminated the innerworkings of Las Vegas’ most famed production during a Q&A session. The cast then surprised the attendees with a freestyle performance in honor of MJ’s birthday.

A second Q&A session followed, this one with Joe Vogel, author of Man in the Music: The Creative Life and Work of Michael Jackson. Vogel and fashion designer Michael Bush, who authored The King of Style – Dressing Michael Jackson, signed their books. The afternoon’s festivities concluded with meet & greet with all of the above and reps of the estate—including co-executor John Branca (second from right), who then moonwalked the entire length of the Strip.