Photo by Tai Teamer
Article by Julian Pasquinelli
The 11th annual New Orleans flash mob performance of Michael Jackson’s 1982 classic, “Thriller,” in Jackson Square astounded crowds this year with our very own Willow students performing. In celebration of both the King of Pop and Halloween, FLASHMOB New Orleans comes to different schools and studios to teach students the dance so they can have a chance to show their talents to the public.
The flash mob was directed by creator Kenneth “Kynt” Bryan, an actor, musician, dancer and choreographer. He came to Willow’s middle school campus twice to teach the 7th grade dance exploratory students the choreography of “Thriller” featured in the music video. Two high school dancers, Johanna Thomas and Hollister David, tagged along with the group as well to Jackson Square on Halloween.
“It was something different,” said junior Hollister David. “I’ve never performed in that type of environment before. Johanna and I only had one practice before. We both learned the dance by watching the “Thriller” video.”
Not only do they recruit school students as dancers, FLASHMOB New Orleans hosts a rehearsal that anyone who wants to participate can join. Anyone can dress up as whatever they want as long as they know the moves they can perform with the group. For the past 11 years, the “Thriller” performance has become a staple of the New Orleans Halloween experience.
Willow dance exploratory students left for Jackson Square at 11 a.m. on Halloween to set up before the performance, along with other schools and organizations such as the Schramel Conservatory of Dance, Anne Burr, Homer Plessy School Treme, Renew Schaumburg, and Walter L. Cohen High School.
The “Thriller” flash mob performance will return next Halloween for its 12th consecutive performance, featuring a new collection of dancers and dance students. Not only is this performance for entertainment, but it connects the city and its people through dancing and Michael Jackson. Willow students were very lucky to be a part of it this year.
