The show will have an extended run in Las Vegas and by late 2012 the Montreal-based contemporary circus troupe aims to have established a permanent performance there.
"Michael Jackson is the King of Pop and an all-time phenomenal artist, both timeless and contemporary," said Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte.
"As a creative challenge, this project is the ultimate. Through the use of cutting-edge technology, we will produce a Cirque du Soleil experience not only worthy of Michael but unlike any other we have created before."
The circus company has previous experience tackling the artistic legacy of major musical stars like Jackson, whose "Thriller" album was the best-selling in history.
Cirque du Soleil honored Elvis with their "Viva Elvis" production and worked with surviving members of the Beatles and the wives of John Lennon and George Harrison to produce "Love," featuring hits from the British band's catalogue.
The Jackson production is being coordinated with his estate, which will own 50 percent of each project as well as royalty payments for the intellectual property used in the shows.
"Our family is thrilled that Cirque du Soleil will pay tribute to my son in such an important way," said Katherine Jackson.
Jackson died suddenly on June 25, 2009 at his rented mansion in Los Angeles after an overdose of powerful prescription drugs, as he was preparing to perform a series of comeback concerts in London.
Katherine Jackson has guardianship of his three children, Prince Michael, 12, Paris, 11 and Prince Michael II, 7, as well as of his estate.
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