Arts & Entertainment
By Popular Demand: "The Life and Music of George Michael" Returns to the MAC Nov. 9
Hits including WHAM's "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" (1983), Michael's hit "Father Figure" (1988) and more make for an unforgettable evening
Following the sold-out performance in February 2024, the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) is pleased to welcome back “The Life and Music of George Michael,” at 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 9. This show chronicles the amazing musical journey of the international pop star’s four-decade career from his time in Wham! through his illustrious solo career. One of the biggest international stars of our time, blockbuster hits featured in the production include “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Freedom,” “Faith,” “Careless Whisper,” “Father Figure,” and many more.
Michael (1963-2016) was an English singer, songwriter and record producer who sold more than 115 million records over four decades. He rose to fame as part of the duo Wham! in the early 1980s. Two years after the duo’s hit “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” he released his hit solo album, “Faith.” Throughout his lifetime he garnered numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, three Brit Awards, Three American Music Awards and four MTV Video Music Awards. He also toured consistently and donated much of his time and wealth to charity.
Michael received the most fan votes among the 2023 nominees for induction to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Fast forward to 2025: Taylor Swift interpolated George Michael's 1987 hit "Father Figure" for her own track of the same name featured in her 12th original studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” just released this month, and including a posthumous music credit to Michael.
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“The Life and Music of George Michael” features the return of Craig Winberry and MAC debut of Connor Antico on lead vocals. They will be backed by a live band featuring Collin Keller (music director, guitar and background vocals), Autumn Jones (lead and background vocals), Marc Encabo (keyboards and background vocals), Sam Ruff (drums), Jennifer Giammanco (bass guitar and background vocals) and Grace Mauk (keyboards and background vocals).
Note: This is a tribute production. It is not associated with or endorsed by George Michael’s estate or George Michael Entertainment.
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McAninch Arts Center, located at 425 Fawell Blvd., presents “The Life and Music of George Michael” 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov.9. Tickets are $62-$67. To order tickets, go to AtTheMAC.org, call 630.942.4000 or visit the MAC Box Office. Box Office hours are noon-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and two hours prior to performance.
