Australian producer Michael Cassel Group has confirmed the lead cast for the Brisbane premiere of MJ the Musical, which is set to commence at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) Lyric Theatre in late-March 2026. The production will feature Broadway performer Ilario Grant in the leading role, following his time with the Melbourne run.
Grant will perform alongside Brisbane local Liam Damons. Damons made his professional debut with the musical and is currently performing in the Melbourne production. He will be returning to his hometown to play the role of Michael Jackson during his teenage years.
The adult cast for the Brisbane season also includes original Broadway company member Oyoyo Joi as Katherine Jackson. Conlon Bonner will play the dual roles of Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones, while J. Daughtry takes on the roles of Joseph Jackson and tour director Rob. Yashith Fernando is cast as Alejandro, Wonza Johnson as Berry Gordy and Nick, and Tim Wright as Dave. Former Home and Away actor Penny McNamee will also return to the stage to portray MTV journalist Rachel.
Additional cast members include Ceeko, Albanus Terry Strickland II, Luther Brooks IV, Sage Lee, Beth Appiah Cain, Shewit Belay, Martha Berhane, Eric Boyd, Charlie Bryant, Liam Costello, Tevin Daniel, Xavier Gibson, Kalisha Johnson, G Madison IV, Loredo Malcolm, David L. Murray Jr, Sebaga Neumann, Coby Njoroge, Warren Nolan Jr, Fletcher O’Leary, Brittany Page, Dustin Praylow, Tigist Strode, Iris Wei, and Tavio Wright.
Australian producer Michael Cassel discussed the casting choices, praising Grant’s performance and highlighting the significance of Damons opening the show in his home city.
Ilario has been extraordinary in this role, and I’m delighted that Brisbane audiences will now experience the depth and brilliance he brings to MJ. It’s also incredibly special for Liam Damons to open the season in his hometown of Brisbane, bringing Michael’s teenage years to life. Together, this exceptional company will have Brisbane audiences on their feet night after night.
Lead actor Ilario Grant shared his appreciation for his time in Australia and his anticipation for the upcoming Brisbane performances.
My time in Australia with MJ has been amazing, and I feel so grateful to continue this journey in Brisbane. The audiences here have been so welcoming, and I’m really looking forward to meeting Brisbane locals, exploring the city, and sharing this show with a whole new audience.
Meanwhile, Liam Damons reflected on his return to Queensland, noting how the city influenced his development as an entertainer.
Returning home to Brisbane with MJ is incredibly special. This city shaped me as a performer, and to share this role here, in front of a hometown audience, means everything.
MJ the Musical is set in 1992 and focuses on the creation of Michael Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour. Written by Lynn Nottage, the production provides a behind the scenes perspective through the viewpoint of an MTV journalist who is granted access to the rehearsal room. The story explores the complex history of the singer’s life and his collaborative creative process as he prepares for the global tour.
MJ the Musical is being presented in Australia by Michael Cassel Group together with original Broadway producers Lia Vollack, John Branca and John McClain. Ticketing information for the remainder of the Melbourne season and the upcoming Brisbane and Perth seasons can be found on the musical’s official website.
