Las Vegas Weekly

July 24, 2009 · 12:49 PM

Michael Jackson concert celebration is set for Aug. 29 birthday

By Robin Leach

Beyonce presents Michael Jackson with the first-ever Humanitarian Award at the Radio Music Awards at the then Aladdin Theatre for the Performing Arts in the Aladdin on Oct. 27, 2003.

Photo: Tom Donoghue/www.donoghuephotography.com

Mark your schedule now for the Michael Jackson celebration tribute concert on what would have been his 51st birthday on Aug. 29. That’s also my birthday, and I’ll emcee the ceremony to start it all off with the unveiling of a star dedicated to him at the Brenden Theatres in the Palms. Then for one performance only, our top entertainers will join together for a special performance titled “Las Vegas Celebrates the Music of Michael Jackson.”

In this multi-artist production celebrating the many hits of the King of Pop, entertainers including cast members of Jersey Boys, The Lion King, Peepshow and Phantom -- The Las Vegas Spectacular will perform the hits of Michael’s songbook. The show also will include video montages from those who knew Michael or were inspired by his work. A 10-piece band comprised of musicians led by Las Vegas’ own Joey Melotti will back the multifaceted acts. Additional performers and event details will be announced in coming weeks.

This special event will commemorate and celebrate Michael’s life while raising funds to help kids across the U.S. and right here in Nevada keep music alive in schools. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit music education programming in Clark County public schools.

Photo: Kirvin Doak Communications

Erich Bergen.

“I can’t think of a better way to pay tribute to the person who inspired me and a whole generation of performers. This event helps keep the music of Michael Jackson alive while raising money to make sure music education stays alive in schools in our community,” said host and co-producer Erich Bergen of Jersey Boys.

Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than 50 years and has spent the past decade giving readers the inside scoop on Las Vegas, the world’s premier platinum playground.

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