Locals Sign Up to Learn the Michael Jackson “Thriller”

By Loni Rahm

They don’t look so scary now, but when this group performs in downtown Chelan on Halloween, you will see the transformation into the zombie-style Thriller characters.

At 6:30 p.m. – in the midst of Chelan’s annual 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Trick or Treat extravaganza – Michael Jackson’s Thriller will be performed near the clock at the intersection of Woodin and Emerson Avenues.

Rehearsals have been underway for several weeks as community members learned the choreography of a dance routine that completely changed music videos.

The original video was released in 1982, and has become a staple of Halloween entertainment ever since. The popularity of community dances led to the formation of Thrill the World – simultaneously staged performances by thousands of people worldwide.

What is Thrill The World?  

Thrill The World is an annual worldwide attempt to break the Largest Simultaneous Dance with Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Thousands of people in cities around the world will learn “Thriller,” dance and perform it together on the day that Thrill The World takes place.

Michael Jackson’s Thriller

Michael Jackson’s 14-minute short film “Thriller” revolutionized the music video genre forever. Hailed as the greatest music video of all time by MTV, VH1, Rolling Stone and others, “Thriller,” directed by John Landis, is also the only music video selected to be included in the Library of Congress’ prestigious National Film Registry. Written by Rod Temperton Produced by Quincy Jones for Quincy Jones Productions From the album Thriller, released November 30, 1982 Released as a single January 23, 1984 THE SHORT FILM Director: John Landis Primary Production Location: Los Angeles, California