Raymond Luke Jr. and Jibreel Mawry are two young men that have stepped into the roles of their lives. The guys are starring on Broadway in “Motown: The Musical” and taking turns portraying iconic characters Michael Jackson, a young Motown founder Berry Gordy and an adolescent Stevie Wonder.
The duo admit that this is a huge leap in their career. “It’s a big step,” admitted Jibreel in an interview at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. “We went from local performances around town to Broadway.”
Jibreel, originally from Detroit began listening to Michael Jackson when he was 5. He used what he’s learned to help his acting counterpart perfect playing the part of the King of Pop. “I wasn’t comfortable with smiling. I was the kind of singer that just stands still,” Raymond said. Of his co-star, he added: “When he’s Michael, he’s like a whole other Michael. He’s like Michael Jr.”
Jibreel got the part after sending in his video and having his family drive him to New York just to be sure. He received a call back to join a workshop and later got a call that he’d landed the role.
Raymond began leading his church choir at the age of 8 and sang on camera in Los Angeles with the songs, I Want You Back, Loving You and I’ll Be There. He was invited to New York and landed his role before Christmas break. He recalled his mom getting the phone call that he’d gotten the part. “I just remember her crying, ‘You made it! You made it!’” he said. “I’ve been singing since I was 3, so it’s kind of amazing for me to actually be here. C’mon? New York? Broadway? That’s amazing.”
The guys keep up with their school work in between changes and practice with the help of their tutor, Lisa Swift. Jibreel is in the sixth grade while Raymond is in the seventh.
Both guys want to continue with their careers in the entertainment industry. Jibreel wants to finish his debut album and Raymond has been in Toys R Us and Volkswagen commercials.
Congrats guys!
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