With Halloween on the horizon, it’s time to release your inner zombie. For the 10th year in a row, local nonprofit World Dance for Humanity is hosting Santa Barbara’s annual Thriller event, which is part of the global dance phenomenon — Thrill the World.
All ages and abilities are invited to learn “Thriller,” “Beat It” and other Halloween dances in-person or online. No experience needed.
The dancing starts the week before Halloween with informal flashmobs all around town, and culminates in the big Thrill the World event. Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens. A Costume Dance Party begins at 1 p.m., followed by the Thriller performance at 2 p.m.
The event is free and open to everyone.
“It’s going to be a very special event this year, as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of the ‘Thriller’ album release, the best-selling album of all time,” said Janet Reineck, World Dance for Humanity’s executive director.
Practices, which begin this week, will be held on the Oak Park stage Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. and Fridays at 5:30 p.m.; and by the beach at Chase Palm Park, Saturdays at 9:45 a.m. Just attend a practice to register. Come to all the practices or just a few.
World Dance requests a one-time $40 tax-deductible donation that covers all practices and event participation. The funds raised — from event sponsors and participants — benefit the organization’s Rwanda Education Fund, which is giving 287 Rwandan students a chance to attend high school and college; and Santa Barbara’s Westside Boys & Girls Club where World Dancers provide after-school tutoring.
Businesses, individuals, and community groups are invited to become event sponsors and enjoy months of community-wide visibility in the following categories:
Ghouls $100
Vampires $250
Werewolves $500
Ghosts $1,000
Zombies $5,000
To become an event sponsor or schedule a flashmob for your company, community group, or private party, contact janetworlddance@outlook.com.
For more Thriller information, visit: https://worlddanceforhumanity.org/thriller2022/
World Dance Class Times and Locations
Halloween Dance Practice Videos
Thriller Photos (for costume and make-Up ideas)