At just nine years old, Dubbo’s Kayleb Alese is starring as Little Marlon in the award-winning production MJ the Musical – based on the life of the late music star Michael Jackson – at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre.

It is Kayleb’s professional theatre debut.

Kayleb has trained with the Stepping Out Dance Factory and is a talented performer and featured hip hop dancer.

He was a performer in primary school and regional and remote Schools Ensembles in the 2024 NSW Schools Spectacular.

When he’s not performing Kayleb loves handball, swimming, trampolining and competing in little athletics.

“Kayleb is a remarkable young performer – full of heart, focus and star quality well beyond his years,” Australian producer of MJ the Musical, Michael Cassell, said.

“At just nine years old, he’s making his professional debut as Little Marlon, and it’s so wonderful to see him represent Dubbo as he lights up the stage at the Sydney Lyric Theatre.

“He’s a powerful reminder that world-class talent can come from anywhere in Australia. Our young performers play a vital role in bringing MJ’s early life to the stage – and Kayleb does it with incredible passion.”

MJ the Musical takes the audience back to 1992 and inside the creation of the iconic Dangerous World Tour, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status.

Via a series of flashbacks, MJ the Musical also explores the formative years of Jackson’s life alongside his brothers in The Jackson Five.

Eight young performers have been given the chance to star as either Little Michael or Little Marlon. Roles are for children between the ages of eight and 13.

Kayleb is sharing the role of Little Marlon with other performers.

The Oliver and four-time Tony Award-winning musical had its Australian premiere in Sydney earlier this year with a star-studded performance attended by celebrities from around Australia and the globe, including very special guest, Michael Jackson’s son Prince Jackson.

It is the fifth production of the blockbuster show to have opened since it premiered on Broadway in February 2022.

Productions in London, Germany and a US tour followed.

Brought to Australia by leading producer Michael Cassel, alongside original Broadway producers Lia Vollack, John Branca and John McClain, MJ the Musical is now playing at the Sydney Lyric Theatre.

Lia Vollack said: “Since our very first preview, Australian audiences have embraced this show with an energy and passion beyond our wildest expectations. The love for MJ here is truly extraordinary, and it’s been incredible to witness the joy, excitement and electric atmosphere that fills the theatre every night. We are so excited to share this production with you."

Michael Cassel added: “I said Australian audiences would be obsessed with this incredible show, but I couldn’t have imagined just how passionately they would embrace it! From the fans coming dressed up, the audience members dancing in their seats, to the people gathering at stage door every night to meet our cast, this electrifying show has truly captured Sydney’s heart.”

MJ the Musical will play in Sydney until late August.