'There are no limits': Jamaal Fields-Green on Startin' Somethin' in the West End
A spotlight on current MJ in the smash-hit London production
“Gonna make a difference… take a look at yourself and then make a change”
For Jamaal Fields-Green, making a difference meant flying across the Atlantic at a moment’s notice to cover the renowned titular role in the West End production of MJ the Musical. Making a difference meant being the first performer to have played the role across three global productions: on Broadway, in the US National Tour and in the West End.
And now, the New York native has taken over the role full-time to retell the story of the legendary entertainer seven times a week. We sat down with Jamaal about all things Man in the Mirror, and how chance encounters sparked something new…
MJ is truly an impressive and demanding role both physically and vocally – how do you go about some of these challenges to portray this character every night?
I always want to ensure that I’m taking care of myself. Maintenance is the most important thing. Hydrating, stretching, and sleeping are the big three. I also work with a personal trainer twice a week and a vocal coach once a week.
Audiences who have seen the show will know that the character of Michael goes beyond just an artiste – what is it about his journey that you think might be relatable to many pursuing their passion in the arts?
He was always looking for ways to push himself to make himself better. To make himself the best artist he could be. The biggest take way for artists would be that Michael remained a student. Even when people were considering him the King of Pop. He never let that get in the way of him wanting to learn more and grow.
Having performed as MJ on both sides of the Atlantic, has your experience been any different working across different productions?
The culture here is just different. Audiences are more reserved but I like it. Other than that, everything else is just about the same.
You made your West End debut last year as an emergency cover, flying in to cover the role in the London production - tell us more about that experience…
It was crazy. I flew in at the top of the morning and proceeded to do a two show day. I remember everyone looking at me like I was an alien. Definitely an experience I’ll never forget.
Over the course of the MJ story, we see little Michael realise his passion for performing – what inspired you to get into theatre?
My friends and I originally auditioned for the school play as a joke. We all played sports and thought it would be been funny. But I got a lead role (Seaweed in Hairspray) and we decided to go for it - ended up having the best time and did it the remains two years of our time in high school.
The year later, I had a teacher tell my mom I could do this for the rest of my life if I took it serious enough; at the time, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life, so I got an acting coach and repaired for college auditions. And took a chance on myself - caught the bug and kind of just allowed myself to fall in love with the craft of it all. I also grew up a huge movie buff. So I’d say, it was always there, even if I didn’t see it at first.
With more shows officially casting alternates, swings and covers, do you think they deserve more recognition from both audiences and the industry?
Absolutely. Swings and alternates are the backbone of our industry. They deserve all the praise and recognition. There needs to be more in my opinion.
Finally, what is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring performers and creatives wanting to start a career in theatre?
This business can be hard a lot of the time. Two of the most important things you have are your passion and willingness to practice and perfect your craft. Always remain a student. And in those hard moments, trust your gut and bet on yourself. Also, do more than one thing. Venture out into other forms of entertainment. Aside from theatre, I also do voiceover, directing, writing, own a business, make original music. Never allow yourself to be boxed in. There are no limits unless you yourself say that there are.
MJ the Musical is currently booking at the Prince Edward Theatre until March 2026.
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