In 2001, I had the extraordinary honor of serving as the choreographer for "The Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration," a historic event held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The concert, which took place on September 7 and 10, was a celebration of Michael Jackson's 30 years as a solo artist, marking a milestone in his illustrious career. The show was later aired as a two-hour special on CBS, drawing in an estimated 45 million viewers, making it one of the highest-rated musical specials in television history.
Working closely with Michael Jackson, I had the incredible opportunity to choreograph performances for a lineup of legendary artists, including Britney Spears, Usher, Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, Shaggy, Marc Anthony, and Liza Minnelli. These collaborations created some of the most unforgettable moments in music history, such as the electrifying performances of "The Way You Make Me Feel" with Britney Spears and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" with Mýa, Usher, and Whitney Houston. Additionally, I had the privilege of dancing alongside Michael Jackson himself during the iconic performances of "Beat It" and "The Way You Make Me Feel," moments that remain some of the most cherished in my career.
The concert was a massive success, with tickets selling out in just two hours. VIP tickets, which included a dinner with Michael Jackson and a signed poster, were priced at $10,000, reflecting the immense demand and the once-in-a-lifetime nature of the event. The two performances grossed over $10 million, with Michael Jackson earning a reported $7.5 million per show. Despite some controversies surrounding Jackson's performance, the event remains a significant milestone in entertainment history, and I am proud to have played a key role in its success.
This experience was not only a highlight of my career but also a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in the world of dance and music. Choreographing and performing in such a monumental event alongside some of the biggest names in the industry further solidified my passion for the art of dance and my commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in performance. The "Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration" will always hold a special place in my heart as a moment where dreams truly came to life.