MICHAEL JACKSON’S MAGIC COMES ALIVE AT CITY OF DREAMS SRI LANKA THIS NOVEMBER
By: Thasmina Sookoor
City of Dreams Sri Lanka is preparing to transport music lovers into the extraordinary world of Michael Jackson as the internationally acclaimed production This Is Michael, Relive the Legend takes centre stage at The Podium on the 8th and 9th of November 2026. Promising an electrifying celebration of the King of Pop, the spectacular production will bring together some of Jackson’s most unforgettable songs, iconic dance movements, dazzling costumes and theatrical effects in an experience designed to capture the excitement of his legendary live performances. In a move expected to delight fans, organisers have introduced a dedicated Dance Floor category, allowing audiences to get closer to the stage and experience the music in a more energetic and interactive atmosphere. Priced at Rs. 7,500, the Dance Floor offers fans the opportunity to stand, dance and sing along to the music that defined generations. For those who prefer a more traditional concert experience, seated tickets are available from Rs. 10,000. The introduction of the Dance Floor is expected to add a new dimension to the event, transforming the venue into a vibrant celebration of music, movement and nostalgia. For Sri Lankan audiences who grew up listening to Michael Jackson, as well as younger fans discovering his extraordinary musical legacy, the production promises an opportunity to experience the excitement associated with one of the most influential entertainers in popular music history.
A SPECTACULAR TRIBUTE TO THE KING OF POP
At the heart of This Is Michael is internationally acclaimed tribute performer Lenny Jay, whose portrayal of Jackson forms the centrepiece of a production that has captivated audiences across the world. Rather than relying solely on familiar songs and impersonation, the production combines live musicians, powerful vocals, elaborate choreography, professional dancers, signature costumes, striking visuals and sophisticated stage technology. Together, these elements seek to recreate the atmosphere and theatrical brilliance that made Jackson’s concerts extraordinary events. Audiences can expect a musical journey through more than 20 of his greatest hits, including Billie Jean, Beat It, Thriller, Smooth Criminal, Man in the Mirror, Bad, Black or White, Dangerous and Earth Song. Each song represents a different chapter in Jackson’s remarkable career, from the infectious rhythms that dominated dance floors to the emotionally charged compositions that carried messages of compassion, unity and social awareness. The performance also celebrates the unmistakable choreography that became synonymous with the King of Pop. Jackson revolutionised the relationship between music and dance, turning movements such as the moonwalk into instantly recognisable cultural symbols. His ability to combine precision, rhythm and theatrical storytelling helped establish a new standard for live entertainment. This Is Michael seeks to bring that spirit back to the stage through carefully coordinated dance sequences, visual effects and performances that celebrate the energy of his original productions. For fans, the appeal extends beyond hearing familiar melodies. It is an opportunity to revisit the atmosphere of an era when Jackson’s music dominated radio stations, television screens and concert arenas across the globe.
INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS ARRIVES IN COLOMBO
The arrival of This Is Michael in Sri Lanka follows an extensive international touring history that demonstrates the production’s global appeal. According to the organisers, the show has travelled to more than 60 cities, delivered over 180 performances and sold more than 500,000 tickets. Its recent performances in Mexico attracted more than 35,000 spectators across three sold out arenas, further highlighting the continuing popularity of Jackson’s music and the demand for productions celebrating his legacy. The show has also appeared at internationally recognised venues, including Arena CDMX, Arena Monterrey, Auditorio Nacional, Movistar Arena, Etihad Arena and Sheikh Jaber. These performances have helped establish This Is Michael as a large-scale international touring production rather than a conventional tribute concert. Its appearance in Colombo will now give Sri Lankan audiences an opportunity to experience a show that has previously entertained thousands of spectators at major international venues. The production's combination of live entertainment, choreography and stagecraft is particularly significant at a time when Sri Lanka continues to develop its position as a destination for international entertainment and cultural experiences. For local music enthusiasts, such productions offer an opportunity to enjoy international performances without travelling overseas. They also introduce younger audiences to the music and artistic influence of performers whose work continues to shape contemporary entertainment.
A NEW CHAPTER IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
The concert will also mark an important milestone for City of Dreams Sri Lanka as the inaugural production in its newly introduced Legends in Concert series. The initiative is designed to showcase leading international tribute performers through major theatrical concert productions celebrating some of the world's most recognisable musical personalities. With This Is Michael selected to launch the series, organisers are placing one of popular music's most enduring icons at the centre of this new entertainment offering. The concept aims to move beyond conventional musical performances by combining celebrated repertoires with elaborate staging and immersive audience experiences. For City of Dreams Sri Lanka, the initiative represents another addition to its growing entertainment portfolio, reinforcing the venue's ambition to host international productions that appeal to diverse audiences. The Podium will provide the setting for the two November performances, bringing together the music, technology and theatrical presentation associated with the international touring show. The decision to introduce a Dance Floor also reflects a more participatory approach to concert entertainment. Instead of experiencing the performance entirely from their seats, fans choosing this category will be able to move with the rhythm, dance to their favourite songs and share the excitement with fellow music enthusiasts. For a concert built around an artist whose performances transformed dance into a global phenomenon, the Dance Floor is expected to become one of the event's most popular attractions.
MUSIC THAT CONTINUES TO UNITE GENERATIONS
Nearly two decades after his death in 2009, Michael Jackson remains one of the most recognisable figures in the history of popular entertainment. His musical achievements, distinctive vocal style, pioneering music videos and groundbreaking stage performances continue to influence performers around the world. Songs such as Billie Jean and Beat It remain familiar across generations, while Thriller continues to occupy a distinctive place in popular culture through its music, choreography and cinematic presentation. Other compositions, including Man in the Mirror and Earth Song, demonstrated Jackson's ability to combine popular entertainment with wider messages about humanity and the environment. It is this extraordinary range that makes his catalogue particularly suited to a theatrical concert production. From high energy dance numbers to emotional ballads, the music offers opportunities for dramatic staging, audience participation and moments of nostalgia. For Sri Lankan fans, This Is Michael promises an evening that celebrates not only the songs themselves but also the creative imagination and performance style that made Jackson a worldwide phenomenon.
SPECIAL TICKET OFFERS FOR MUSIC LOVERS
Organisers have also introduced promotional offers designed to make the concert more accessible to audiences. Cinnamon Life Oktoberfest ticket holders will receive a 15% discount on the Rs. 7,500 Dance Floor category. Eligible ticket holders can redeem the offer by verifying their Oktoberfest booking and obtaining a promotional code to use when purchasing their This Is Michael tickets. Additional savings are available to Seylan Bank cardholders through an exclusive ticket promotion. Seylan Visa Infinite, Visa Signature and World Mastercard cardholders are entitled to a 20% discount, while Seylan Visa Platinum, Visa Gold, Mastercard Freedom and Debit cardholders can enjoy a 15% discount. All cardholder offers are subject to the applicable terms and conditions. The discounts provide additional opportunities for fans to attend the international production, whether they prefer the atmosphere of the Dance Floor or the comfort of seated accommodation, subject to the relevant promotional conditions.
LEADING BRANDS SUPPORT THE PRODUCTION
This Is Michael is presented by City of Dreams Sri Lanka, with Seylan Bank joining as the In Association With Partner, JAT Holdings as the Powered By Partner and IMORICH as the Indulgence Partner. The event is further supported by Wijeya Newspapers Limited and Daily Mirror, The Sun, HI!! Magazine, HI!! TV, HI!! Online and Daily Mirror Online, as Exclusive Digital and Print Media Partners, TV Derana and Ada Derana as Electronic Media Partners, Scope as Cinema Partner, Emerging Media as Outdoor Digital Media Partner and EFM as Radio Partner. DC Group joins as Creative and Digital Partner, while Million Laughs serves as Event Partner. The collaboration brings together several prominent brands and media organisations in support of an international entertainment production expected to attract music lovers from across Sri Lanka.
With its celebrated musical repertoire, international touring credentials and immersive production, This Is Michael promises to be a notable addition to Colombo's entertainment calendar this November. For those who remember Jackson's unforgettable performances, the concert offers an opportunity to revisit the music that accompanied some of their most cherished memories. For younger audiences, it presents a chance to discover why the King of Pop continues to command admiration around the world. Above all, the two performances promise an evening where music, dance and theatrical spectacle come together in celebration of an extraordinary musical legacy.
This Is Michael, Relive the Legend will be staged at The Podium, City of Dreams Sri Lanka, on the 8th and 9th of November 2026. Tickets are available through: CinnamonBoxOffice.com or by calling: 071 411 7111.
With seated tickets starting at Rs. 10,000 and Dance Floor access priced at Rs. 7,500, fans can choose how they wish to experience a celebration of the music, movement and enduring magic of Michael Jackson.
