Thriller Live is a jukebox musical of Michael Jackson and Jackson 5 songs. The show lasts for over two hours and takes you through Michael Jackson's 40 year musical history and includes many popular sing-a-long numbers such as I Want You Back, Billie Jean, Blame It On The Boogie, and Smooth Criminal.

Thriller Live arrived in London's West End in January 2009 and is booking until Easter 2015. It is the the longest running show in the Lyric Theatre's history.

Thriller Live is a constantly changing concert-style show that celebrates the unforgettable music and iconic dance moves of the world's greatest entertainer and King of Pop.

Performers

It's not a musical with a storyline but more of a chronological (ish) journey through solid gold Michael Jackson hits. I felt the 1970s and '80s were a bit mixed up with '70s songs being performed when the cast were already in '80s costumes but hey, that's a long time ago for many, I know.

There's a narrator who does some scene-setting and introductions as well as performing too.

There are dance routines and different performers for different eras of Michael Jackson's musical career - including a child with a great voice to sing the early Jackson 5 songs.

The narrator is joined by a male and female singer who play characters influenced by Michael Jackson. Typically, I missed the introduction (I was there, just didn't work out what was said) so never knew who they were supposed to be but I think the man was Justin Timberlake and the woman might have been J-Lo or Jessie J.

Either way, they were both good singers.

The Stage

It's a simple set with two sets of steps on each side leading to a higher platform but most of the action happens on the main level (which is helpful as I've heard it's harder to see the performers on the platform from the balcony seats).

The orchestra are also on the stage throughout the show but mostly behind a screen. For some songs a guitarist comes out to join the cast.

Audience Participation

While many who watch West End shows do not expect to have to join in, Thriller Live requires the audience to get up and boogie so do go knowing you'll be up and out of your seat more than once.

Family Show?

I saw the show on a Sunday matinee, so a prime time for families. I took my 8 year old daughter who giggled at the crotch grabbing dance moves and sniggered at the word 'sexy' but, thankfully, a lot of the raunchier stuff was lost on her. I was bit concerned at the Dirty Diana performance as it involved fetish fashion-wearing women gyrating on top of men which I thought was a bit unnecessary for a family show and was glad when it was over.

Conclusion

Go knowing what you're going to get - a lot of hit songs but no story - and make sure the kids are prepared for a few blushes.

Official Website:www.thrillerlive.com