The L.A. Times reports that Jackson is spending six hours a day on a soundstage near Burbank Airport rehearsing for the show, approximately four days a week. The production budget, which is estimated at north of $20 million, will include as many as 22 different sets.
"It's going to be the biggest, most technologically advance arena show - and the most expensive - ever mounted," said Randy Phillips, CEO of AEG Live.
Jackson is working with Kenny Ortega, who worked with Jackson previously on his Dangerous and HIStory tours, and who has remained one of the biggest names in choreography, after helming the "High School Musical" films and the upcoming remake of "Footloose."
He's also working on new signature moves with choreographers Travis Payne, Todd Sams, and Rich & Tone Talauega, who have worked with the likes of Usher to Chris Brown. Phillips says Jackson is having no trouble keeping up with dancers half his age.
Other than denying rumors that the show will feature animals, Phillips is "sworn to secrecy" and won't reveal much, but that Jackson will perform between 18 to 22 songs and the show will feature some Cirque-style aerial dancing.
Jackson's "This Is It" shows kicks off July 8th at the O2 Arena in London.
