Michael Jackson to get the Cirque du Soleil treatment

Michael Jackson is to be immortalised in the unlikely form of a new production from Cirque du Soleil . Following the Is This It movie and the reported biggest record deal of all time with Sony Music, the new show is the latest bit of Jackson-related activity to be sanctioned by the Jackson family. The acrobatic troupe will launch a touring show based on songs from the Jackson catalogue, followed by a permanent production in Las Vegas from 2012. The news is perhaps not surprising – previous Cirque du Soleil productions have centred around the Beatles and Elvis Presley. The late singer's mother Katherine said in a statement: "Our family is thrilled that Cirque du Soleil will pay tribute to my son in such an important way." The Jackson family will share a 50/50 split with Cirque of both production costs and eventual profits. John Branca, co-executor of the estate, added: "Having attended Cirque du Soleil performances with Michael, I know he was a huge fan. We are excited to be partners with Cirque du Soleil to give Michael's fans a truly unique way to hear, see and feel Michael's music."