Thrill The World Event

"Thriller, Thriller night."  You know the words, you have seen the dance, and the video is one you have played one too many times, but rarely ever do you pay the ultimate tribute to the legendary musician.

Michael Jackson's "Thriller" is a legendary song and dance that the Thrill the World organization has paid tribute to over the past year.  The goal of the organization is to break the Guinness World Record for largest simultaneous dance; they will use Michael Jackson's hit song.

Fifteen students gathered on the quad yesterday where they were taught the dance by Santa Monica College student, Ahrha Ko, 19, and Director of Publicity, Leeor Braude.

A number of people passed by the quad unsure of what was going on but soon enough, they were attracted to the event as the zombie dance was repeatedly performed. "I like it, but I don't think I am brave enough to perform with them," Shunara Maxey, 18, said.

The event was brought to SMC after "I found out about the event while walking down the street," Braude said.  "My girlfriend and I took part in the event on Hollywood and Highland and thought it would be a wonderful thing to bring to SMC."

Last year's performance was held as a mark for the 25 year anniversary for the music video.  The group's attempt to break the world record is now considered a great tribute to the unfortunate loss of Jackson.  

"I just love MJ, I have been following him since I was little and so the dance is a nice way to remember him," participant, Anisa Elkhouir, 18, said.  

Music has always been the way to connect people. The variety of students who participated in the event proved the diversity that music produces. "We all wanted to learn the dance," Elkhouir said. "Plus, we like zombies and it's Halloween."  

In general, the dance was performed quite well and the opportunity to relearn the routine will help those who just want to have a good time.

"I was looking for something meaningless and fun to pass the time," Ko said. "It is something and everyone is excited to learn the dance."

Elkhouir as well as several other dancers will be back on Friday to learn the dance once more.  The second practice will be held on the campus quad at 11:15 a.m. The group plans to perform the dance this Sunday at the Nokia Live Theater at 12:30 a.m.  The goal is to have 270,000 people across the world perform the dance.  

Till then, fight for your life in the killer, thriller tonight.