Berklee Presents the Michael Jackson Ensemble: Human Nature

Berklee proudly presents the latest addition to its Signature Series lineup, the Michael Jackson Ensemble: Human Nature, a production that pays tribute to the unparalleled legacy of Michael Jackson. This experience is scheduled for two nights on Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. at the Berklee Performance Center. 

Under the direction of Professor Tia Fuller, known for leading innovative productions such as the Beyoncé Ensemble’s Homecoming concert and the Bruno Mars Ensemble performance, the Michael Jackson Ensemble: Human Nature production will be a journey through the emotional landscape and essence of Jackson’s life. This concert will feature approximately 80 students and faculty, including Professor Lil' John Roberts, who previously worked with Jackson and toured extensively with Janet Jackson during her 1998 Velvet Rope tour. He will serve as the concert’s executive musical director. In addition, the complete team of faculty include Mimi Jones (codirector) and Jhony Keys (co-music director) and Boston Conservatory's Professor Anthony Burrell (choreographer/movement director).

The ensemble is deeply rooted in the core principles of wisdom, humility, forgiveness, nurturing, and spirituality, reflecting the essence of Jackson’s worldview. Audience members can expect a night of entertainment, education, and inspiration, while celebrating the King of Pop’s journey from his childhood innocence and adolescence to his social awareness and advocacy for love and peace. The concert will not only honor Jackson’s musical genius but also highlight his impact on culture, art, and humanity, and promises to be a powerful tribute to the mark he left on the world.  

“With Michael Jackson's Human Nature we hope to empower, embrace, and celebrate the genius of Michael Jackson, through music, dance, and a multimedia production,” said Fuller, artistic director of the Berklee Ensemble Department. “It is also imperative that students in this production are cultivating their character and aligning themselves with the workmanship, sacrifice, vision, and diligence that it takes to put on a show of this caliber so that they are able to carry the lessons of this experience to inform and empower their life's journey.” 

Adds Fuller, “I am proud to say that after nine years of doing these productions, they are a melting pot of what Berklee has to offer. The experience is transformational not only for the students but the Berklee community at large.”

The Michael Jackson Ensemble: Human Nature performances will take place on April 12 and 13 at the Berklee Performance Center, located at 136 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston. Tickets are priced at $15–$20 in advance and $20–$25 on the day of the show, available both online and at the Berklee box office.