02 Luglio 2009
It seems like AEG Live no longer wants to wait to show video proof of Michael Jackson’s fitness and health. Sources say the concert promoter will likely release some “live” video clips from Jackson’s rehearsals either late tonight or early tomorrow.
The release will not be exclusive but rather like a movie release—wide—to get the most impact. The clips will show Jackson dancing, singing, and directing his show, interacting with cast members as they put together the “This Is It” tour for London. Photos from the tour were distributed days ago by AEG; there’s also talk of a DVD to come.
If this doesn’t dispel the idea that Jackson was frail or incoherent, nothing will.
Jackson's rehearsal at the Staples Centre on Wednesday, one day before his death, was recorded in multi-camera high-definition video and multi-track surround-sound audio. AEG are now allegedly considering the release of this footage, as a "live" album and DVD.
Jackson was "electric" in the final rehearsal, according to lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe. This was a change from the previous week, Woodroffe told BBC4, when "[Jackson] hadn't really been with us".
Over several hours, Jackson interacted with dancers, musicians and aerial performers. Speaking to Bloomberg, AEG president Randy Phillips raved about the performance. "I take great solace in the pride and confidence [Jackson] exhibited in the rehearsals on Wednesday night. This is the memory I will cherish for the rest of my life."
"It was quite an emotional moment when we realised that, well, he had it," Woodroffe said. "Of course we all had a view as to whether he would be able to survive these 50 shows."