South Kent School’s “Thriller” Group: Brings Michael Jackson’s Iconic Song & Dance Center Stage in Kent
“Darkness falls across the land. The midnight hour is close at hand. Creatures crawl in search of blood, to terrorize your neighborhood…” These iconic lyrics from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” have echoed through the streets of Kent for over a decade, thanks to the electrifying performances of South Kent School’s “Thriller” Group.
Originating over 10 years ago by South Kent student Jack (Chao) Huang ’13, a talented dancer with the Explore Affinity Group, the “Thriller” Entertainment Group has become a beloved tradition at South Kent School and in the town of Kent.
The group made its debut performance during Fall Family Weekend on October 18, 2013, captivating audiences with their spirited rendition of the iconic dance. Their performance was met with such enthusiasm that they were invited to perform again on campus during the school’s annual Haunted House event on October 29. However, the main event took place on Halloween night, October 31, on Main Street in Kent.
Even in rainy weather, the streets were filled with eager spectators as the South Kent boys took to the stage, led by coordinator and instructor Wanessa Anderson. Their performance mesmerized the crowd, with an estimated 500 people witnessing their thrilling rendition of “Thriller.” As reported by the Republican-American newspaper, the group’s choreography seamlessly transitioned from eerie zombie movements to precision dancing, captivating audiences young and old alike.
Following their success in Kent, the “Thriller” Entertainment Group continued to dazzle audiences with another performance on Halloween night on the field adjacent to Kent’s own Heron Gallery. Thanks to months of dedicated practice and guidance from South Kent School’s art department chair and coordinator of the “Call to Explore” affinity group, the boys delivered yet another unforgettable performance.
Reflecting on their journey, Wanessa Anderson praised the boys for their dedication and courage. “None of them had ever performed much less danced in front of hundreds of people,” she remarked. “Dance is kind of taboo for a teenage guy, but they hung in and were pleasantly surprised once the whole experience was over.”
As the South Kent boys continue to hone their craft and inspire audiences with their talent and enthusiasm, one thing is certain: the “Thriller” Entertainment Group will continue to be the life (or death?) of the party for many Halloweens to come.
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“All of the boys choose zombies in September. They’ve been practicefor two months. It wasn’t always an easy experience. Many have ever performed much less danced in front of hundreds of people. Dance is kind of taboo for a teenage guy, but they hung in and were pleasantly surprised once the whole experience was over. They hadn’t considered how wonderful it would feel to have all of those people cheering, clapping and complimenting them.” – Cheryl Moore, Art Department Chair and Coordinator
“I’m a dancer but not a teacher, so in the beginning I was a little bit frustrated since people didn’t fully get it the way I do right away, But I learned that by repeating the steps, the other guys were able to catch on. When they finally got into full costume and makeup, they really got into character.” – Jack (Chao) Huang ’13
“I had never danced before so it was hard at first. I had to practice in my dorm to make sure I knew the steps,” Charles said. “But I wanted to challenge myself since I have never done this before. In my costume, I felt like a professional.” – Jeff Charles ’14
