The King of Pop’s Music Comes Alive in Manila for the First Time
By Boy Romero
Rodrigo Teaser doesn’t just pay tribute to Michael Jackson. He brings him back to the stage.
For the first time, Michael Lives Forever is coming to the Philippines. On March 14 and 15, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, fans will witness a tribute like no other. No lip-syncing. No gimmicks. Just the music, the moves, and the presence of the greatest pop star who ever lived, performed live by the world’s top MJ impersonator.
Rodrigo Teaser was nine years old when he started imitating Michael Jackson in Greater São Paulo, Brazil. Now, he is known worldwide for it. Malaysia, China, and Singapore have all seen his tribute show. But Manila? This is a first.
“I’m so happy to be here. Because in 1996, Michael performed in Manila,” Rodrigo shares. “And for some reason, if you watched the shows from 1996, 1997, Michael was more like a serious guy. But in Manila, he was so happy, smiling, and always saying, ‘I love you, Manila!’”
That memory stuck with Rodrigo. Now, he is here. Not just to perform, but to celebrate the energy that made Manila special to Michael himself.
Rodrigo does not just see himself as an impersonator. “I always say that I’m not an artist that learned how to impersonate Michael,” he explains. “I’m a fan, and by impersonating my idol, I learned that I could be an artist.”
His show is built with real MJ history. Michael’s former dancer and choreographer. His backup singer. His co-director for over 20 years. They are all part of Michael Lives Forever.
And then there is “Billie Jean.” Rodrigo calls it one of his favorites to perform. Understandable. The song is not just a hit, it is an entire moment in music history. One that can still stop a crowd.
This is not just another tribute show. It is the closest thing to seeing Michael Jackson live.
Some fans saw Michael Jackson in 1996. Some never got the chance. Either way, this might be the best way to relive that magic.
And for Rodrigo? “It’s my first time in the Philippines, and I hope it’s not my last.”