Who doesn’t love a good talent show?
Now, most people put in a lot of hard work to perfect their act – but there are those who really take it to the next level.
In the video below, the spotlight shines on Jonny Cruz, a young man who has taken the internet by storm with his school talent show performance of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal.”
This performance, which is primarily based on the Dangerous Tour version of the song, shows Cruz’s dedication to his craft and his admiration for the King of Pop.
Not only does he captivate the audience, but also pays homage to Jackson’s iconic dance moves, including the legendary “lean!”
Cruz’s performance begins with the familiar opening notes of “Smooth Criminal,” instantly recognizable to any Michael Jackson fan.
There’s anticipation in the room as Cruz steps into the spotlight, his silhouette sharply defined against the stage lights.
The audience is immediately drawn into the performance, their attention captured by Cruz’s confident demeanor and the promise of an unforgettable show.
From the start, it’s obvious what a talented dancer he is.
Cruz’ dance moves are fluid and precise, mirroring Jackson’s own style with an uncanny accuracy.
The highlight of the performance is undoubtedly the “lean,” a move that Jackson made famous in the music video for “Smooth Criminal.”
Cruz executes this move flawlessly, eliciting gasps of astonishment from the audience and further cementing his status as a talented performer.
The performance is not just about the dance moves, however.
Cruz’s interpretation of “Smooth Criminal” also displays his understanding of Jackson’s music and his ability to convey the song’s narrative through dance.
The performance is a story in motion, with Cruz using his body to express the tension and drama inherent in the song.
The setting of the performance also contributes to its impact.
The college stage, transformed by lights and music, becomes a platform for Cruz to showcase his talent.
The stage lights cast dramatic shadows, enhancing the visual appeal of the performance and creating a sense of spectacle.
Whoever was in the audience that night witnessed quite the show – and yes, Cruz pulled off the iconic “moonwalk” too.
The video of Cruz’s performance, edited by Fathom 7 Digital Studios, has garnered significant attention online.
With over 900,000 views and thousands of likes, the video is a testament to Cruz’s talent and the enduring appeal of Michael Jackson’s music.
The comments section is filled with praise for Cruz’s performance, with viewers expressing their admiration for his talent and dedication.
One person wrote:
“Dude… this is amazing! Mj was “the” ultimate entertainer of our time. He put so much into every performance. It had to be perfect, no exceptions and that is what I see here. He would be proud of you!”
Someone else commented:
“Fantastic! This is my fav M. Jackson song and video and you nailed it! Couldn’t believe how amazing you are!”
Cruz’s talent and hard work are evident.
His interpretation of “Smooth Criminal” is not just a dance routine, but a tribute to an artist who has inspired countless performers around the world.
Cruz’s performance is a reminder of the power of music and dance to inspire and entertain, and of the enduring legacy of artists like Michael Jackson.
After performing at the talent show, Jonny Cruz posted photos on Instagram and wrote:
“i can’t express how awesome it was to relive this dream again. i’m still riding the high from this night. everything from the rehearsals leading up to the performance, the performance itself, and the people involved in getting it to run smoothly, this moment was so much fun and such a blessing.”
Click on the video below to see this incredible “Smooth Criminal” performance for yourself!
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