Whoda thunk in 1983 that Michael Jacksons actual corpse would look nothing like the swarthy, raccoon-eyed zombie he plays at the end of the Thriller video? Most MJ fans, you gotta figure, will always remember him as that curly-headed kid in the red jacket leading a small platoon in some of the most bitchin choreography the undead have ever undertaken. Now that an undertaker has had a turn with Jackson, the annual rite that is Thrill the World a simultaneous performance of the Thriller dance by groups in 300-some spots around the globe has a whole new meaning. Well, maybe not new so much as unironically somewhat poignant. If you want to join the Fort Lauderdale dance, just remember that its OK to shed a tear as you stagger around in search of brains.
Registration begins Saturday at 7 p.m. for the 8:30 (sharp) zombie melee at BeachPlace (17 S. A1A, Fort Lauderdale). You can zomb for free but if youre an upstanding sort, youll buy raffle tickets to benefit the Dizzy Feet Foundation, which helps kids join the performing arts. Find out more (including practice times) at myspace.com/ttwftlauderdale or learn about the worldwide event at thrilltheworld.com.
Sat., Oct. 24, 7 p.m., 2009