On Tuesday Cirque du Soleil, according to its website "a dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment," announced that it is teaming up with Michael Jackson's estate to produce a variety of shows based on Jackson's music, dancing, and life story. Projects will include a reality TV show modeled after "American Idol" and "Dancing With the Stars" that will search the world for an unknown choreographer to help put together touring and permanent productions. Additional plans include the actual touring show which will be similar to attending a Michael Jackson concert, a permanent Las Vegas production that will be housed at a property owned by the MGM Mirage, and a Jackson-inspired Las Vegas nightclub.
Michael Jackson's estate will own 50% of the projects and receive royalty payments. This will help to fund the Michael Jackson Family Trust that Jackson established for the benefit of his three minor children, Michael Joseph "Prince" Jackson, Jr., Paris Katherine Michael Jackson, and Prince Michael "Blanket" Jackson II, and his mother, Katherine Jackson. Look for the touring show to kick off in New York late in 2011 and the Las Vegas show to debut in 2012. Visit Cirque du Soleil's website to view a video about the the new collaboration: Cirque du Soleil and Michael Jackson: Coming together in 2011!
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