Interview: Dantanio of MICHAEL JACKSON HISTORY TRIBUTE TOUR

The King of Pop, upon whose head the crown was heavy. A star from the age of five, using that remarkable voice to catapult his entire family into global fame and of course massive personal tumult. Amidst a reportedly abusive childhood, accusations of child sexual assault, a transformation of appearance unlike any seen before that time, and the controversial circumstances surrounding his death, it is the connection with his music that has lasted for audiences the world over. A new tribute show promises to reign as Jackson himself did, fronted by Dantanio, a man called the 'most loved' impersonation act. I was fortunate enough to communicate with Dantanio about the upcoming HIStory tour, arriving in the coming weeks to Australia and New Zealand.

You're known as the most loved Michael Jackson impersonator. When did that truly hit you?

I feel so honoured and humbled that the fans view me in that way but I don't believe in titles. I think the show and performance always speaks for itself.

The day people started calling me Michael Jackson I realised the level that I had reached. But I still don't think of myself as anything but a performer sharing his gift with the rest of the world.

What can old and new audiences expect in this latest production?
We always try to add surprise elements in the show. I think they have to see it to believe it. Our lights show is phenomenal. We have extra elements within the show that will truly amaze our fans. I can't give away too much.

What we at Broadway World can tell you is that this mammoth show took a year's worth of research into Jackson's most iconic performances. Lighting, effects and costumes galore - 4 trucks worth of tour gear! - to ensure every audience member will see an authentic and earnest tribute that emulates Michael's passion and panache.

What has been your most amazing memory performing as Michael Jackson?
I always reflect back to a show in Singapore last year. We had 1,800 people line up at the meet-and-greet after the show. One lady was telling me that she had been to 7 of Michael Jackson's concerts, and that night she felt his spirit again.

Will this be chiefly same cast?
We try to keep the cast as original as possible for identity of the show, but depending on everyone's availability we sometime audition new members.

The tour is going the world over, and Australia is a new destination. How does that feel?
Since this is my first visit I'm very excited to see what Australia has to offer. I'm keen to learn and discover all the wonderful traditions and cultures.

Dantanio, a South African performer and recording artist has studied Jackson since the age of nine. He was selected by director Johnny Van Grinsven out of countless professional singers, dancer and impersonators in a year-long search!

Do you remember the first Michael Jackson number you performed?
It was during my high school Spring Festival in 9th grade. I remember performing "The Way You Make Me Feel". The girls screamed so much that I couldn't hear the music over the PA system. Everyone asked for my autograph afterward and called me "Jackson".

How do you prepare to perform such a legendary role? What rituals do you go through?

I call it my sequence or formula. I love silence before a show. It's my way of connecting and channelling my energy. I do my vocal warm ups and say my prayers.

My tour manager Ben always says I must get loud and get in the zone. But silence is key.

Of course you'll be performing for the 7th anniversary of Michael's passing. How do you intend to mark the occasion?
It's going to be a tough night for me. I will do a dedication in memory of Michael Jackson and remind people of the person not just the personality. That will be the one night I really want the fans to feel extra special and loved. And to remember the great legend and icon Michael Jackson was.

I think the love the fans have for Michael Jackson resonates all over the world. Australian fans truly support the legacy and music with real passion and vigour.

Tickets and a full list of dates and location are available on the show's website and through Ticketmaster. The tour will reach Sydney State Theatre on June 24th 2016.

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