Hampton University student Erik Hamilton is doing the unthinkable. While being a full-time student at Hampton, he has also been rehearsing for his Broadway tour debut in ‘MJ’ the musical.
This all started back in 2023 during Hamilton’s sophomore year of college. His mom forwarded him an email about a casting call for ‘MJ’ the musical. Not only did his mom want him to audition, but his talent agent wanted him to go out for the role as well, but he was unsure.
Even though he had recently won a bunch of accolades for acting, Hamilton was unsure about how he could balance school, a social life, and potentially a huge theater commitment. Still on the fence about auditioning for the musical, Hamilton didn’t record his audition tape until the night before submissions were due. Known for being a great dancer and singer, he asked a friend to record him dancing Michael Jackson’s hit song ‘Billie Jean.’ His tape wowed the casting directors, and he got the part of ‘Middle Michael,’ playing Jackson post Jackson 5 into early adulthood.
For the past seven months, Hamilton has been rehearsing for the musical’s upcoming opening in Norfolk, Virginia, while also taking virtual classes at Hampton to continue his education. The musical showcases the life of Michael Jackson from his time with the Jackson 5 in the early 1960s to his tragic death in 2009. The play mainly centers on his 1992 ‘Dangerous’ World Tour, going back and forth between all stages of Jackson’s life.
There are three actors, including Hamilton, playing Jackson. The main character of the show, MJ, played by Jordan Markus, portrays Jackson at the age of 35. He sings several of his best-selling adult singles, such as “Man in the Mirror,” “Stranger in Moscow,” and, of course, “Billie Jean,” from the 1982 album “Thriller,” which has sold an estimated 70 million copies. Quentin Blanton Jr. plays Little Michael, who makes appearances in scenes where Michael Jackson sings tunes from The Jackson 5’s repertoire, such as “ABC” and “I Want You Back,” and reflects on his early years.
Hamilton, now 21, joined the cast in July. In addition to his role as ‘Middle Michael,’ he is also an understudy to the lead role. His castmate Jordan Markus speaks very highly of Hamilton.
“Oh, he’s amazing. Erik is one of the coolest guys you could ever meet,” said Markus.
‘MJ’ the musical opens Tuesday in Norfolk, Virginia at Chrysler Hall.
