New South African star to bring world-class Michael Jackson show to Cape Town in 2017

The Michael Jackson HIStory Show @ Artscape Opera House running from 19-29 January 2017

The world’s most loved MJ tribute show is returning to Cape Town in early 2017 with its revamped production and new South Africa star, local performer Dantanio.

The Michael Jackson HIStory Show is set to dazzle Cape Town audiences at the Artscape Opera House at the Artscape Theatre, from 19-29 January 2017.

Since the cast change was made (previous star, American Kenny Wizz, retired in 2014) the production has been inundated with positive feedback and pleas from South African fans wanting to see their new hometown hero in action.

It was welcomed feedback for Director, Johnny Van Grinsven, who was unsure how the change would affect the show’s future
‘Wizz was part of this show for almost five years so it was a big transition but our fans have been so supportive, and the reviews on Dantanio have been great,” says Van Grinsven.

Though there was clearly a reputation to uphold and a rigorous schedule of rehearsals ahead, Dantanio was already well prepared for his new role. A skilled dancer, composer and producer with vocal training that started in his gospel-influenced upbringing, Dantanio came with a formidable musical base. Plus his own love for Michael Jackson was obvious, his dance and vocal career littered with MJ references stretching back to his childhood.

“It’s always been my dream and vision to star as MJ… he has given me so much joy and he is still teaching me today,” says Dantanio.

The revamped production stays mostly true to its original concert format showcasing all MJ’s greatest hits live on stage, but with new songs added, costumes updated and innovative new production elements the show will be a fresh experience even for those who’ve seen it before.

The spectacular live concert experience that journeys through Michael Jackson’s beloved musical history including his early days as a member of the Jackson 5, his groundbreaking theatrics in the 80s and his continued reign as the King of Pop into the 21st century.

Come and celebrate the life and talent of Michael Jackson with this casino-class production, starring Dantanio and accompanied by a live international band, fully choreographed dancers, authentic costumes and brilliant effects. It’s a show not to be missed!

Performances include Billie Jean, Thriller, Smooth Criminal, Man in the Mirror, Black or White, Bad, ABC, Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough, Human Nature, Ben and many more hits.

Visit www.mjhistoryshow.com for ticketing and further information. Tickets for this spectacular show can also be purchased via Computicket at either www.computicket.com or via Checkers and Shoprite retail stores, countrywide, and range between R190 and R340 each.

MORE ABOUT DANTANIO
Born to a Gospel family in Kimberly South Africa, Dantanio began singing and dancing at the age of nine, developing a vocal repertoire spanning Pop, R’n’B, Swing, Jazz and Reggae. He went on to create a diverse career in the entertainment industry including theatrical work, songwriting for contemporary Pop stars and the release of two solo albums.

As a skilled impersonator specializing in Michael Jackson and Sammy Davis Jr., Dantanio has travelled the world, including London, USA, South Africa, Bahrain and Kenya, and counts Top Gear (Britain), Sun International, and Nedbank among his corporate clients.

In 2014 the coveted part of Michael Jackson opened up in one of the world’s biggest tribute shows – Showtime Management’s ‘The Michael Jackson HIStory Show’ – and Dantanio was scouted by the show’s Director to fill the challenging role.

Dantanio felt an affinity with Michael Jackson at an early age and his appreciation of Jackson’s dancing evolved into obsessive practice as he taught himself to emulate every detail of the pop star’s trademark dance style. So good was his imitation that it resulted in his ejection from an amateur dance competition at age 16 because the judges believed him to be of a professional standard.

Coming ‘full circle’ from his beginnings as an inspired young MJ fan, Dantanio revels in honouring his idol with his role in The Michael Jackson History Show.