MJ Meet & Greet

As proven by his rendition of “We Are the World” at last month’s World Music Awards in the U.K., Michael Jackson still has some work to do before he’s able to return to performing, but that doesn’t mean he can’t make money other ways.

Positive Productions, the Yokohama-based promoter that handled Jackson’s visit to Japan last May, announced November 16th that it would hold a Christmas party on December 19th with Jackson in attendance, and that the general public was invited.

Tickets to the holiday blowout, at which Jackson will not perform, are priced at 200,000 yen ($1,725) per person.

However, purchasing this so-called gold ticket does not mean fans can actually meet the famous singer, though they will receive an autographed picture of him.

Only those who buy “platinum” tickets, which cost 400,000 yen ($3,450), will be able to participate in the “meet and greet” pre-party event and sit in a special area of the venue that is roped off from the other partygoers, who will be forced to eat and drink while standing.

For reasons not specified, even the 200 platinum ticket holders will have to enjoy refreshments outside the roped-off section in the “arena” area. The press release says no food or drink will be allowed in the exclusive zone.

Platinum guests can also have their pictures taken with the star, either as a “two-shot” or in a group portrait.

For security reasons, the location of the party has not been disclosed.

The entertainment will be provided by a gospel group and “surprise” guests. In addition, recordings of Jackson’s own music will be played extensively. On December 2nd, Positive Productions also held auditions for dancers who will perform original moves to Jackson’s hit “Thriller.”

The auditions took place at Yokohama Bay Hall, and each person who tried out had to pay 3,000 yen ($26) for the privilege. However, the audition fee included admission to an all-night party that followed the try-outs. Non-auditioners paid 2,000 yen.

— Philip Brasor