Etta Short, Director, Learning and Development:
I learned how to dance like a zombie today. And I had such a good time! I went to a Thrill the World dance rehearsal to learn the dance steps in Michael Jackson’s music video “Thriller.”
When I saw the ad in the Calendar section of the newspaper, I was intrigued. I enticed a friend to join me. She was ready, willing and able. Who wouldn’t want to join the “funk of 40,000 years?” What we found was a group interested in participation, rather than perfection. In fact the organizer/choreographer said the more you can make the steps your own, the better it looks. Translation – have fun, be part of this community event and dance!
Thrill The World is an annual worldwide simultaneous dance of Michael Jackson's “Thriller.” This annual event is organized by volunteers in cities around the world. The event was launched in 2006; this year the zombies dance on October 23rd.
The organizers describe the reasons why they want to thrill the world:
• To give the “Thriller” dance to anyone who has ever wanted to learn it
• To utilize the internet to create an international community of leaders, fans and dance enthusiasts
• To inspire others to pursue their vision
• To show that ANYONE can dance!
There are so many good reasons for me to participate in this event.
Dancing is so much fun. Dancing to “Thriller” - even more fun. Enough said.
Moving more, sitting less. I danced for two hours. It was an easy way to get exercise. I built up a glorious sweat. It was exhilarating.
Community spirit. This event brings people from all over the city to together to work towards a common goal. Actually, the term “work” is not quite right; “play” is the better term. We were a large group of strangers, young and old, who were moving, laughing and dancing together.
Additionally, the community spirit extends beyond the city borders. This is an event that joins people from all around the world. In 2007 people participated in 52 cities in five continents.
A good cause: Local groups select charities to support. Our group is raising money for the Make a Wish Foundation and Children’s Hospital.
Did I mention that it was fun? You can be a zombie too! Check out the tutorial videos here.