Perfect is dead.
thriller lives here.
Our story
Chicago Thriller is a community dance group bringing the iconic choreography from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to life on the streets of Chicago each Halloween season.
Since 2012, hundreds of dancers have joined us for rehearsals, parades, performances and a whole lot of zombie fun. We welcome people of all dance backgrounds and experience levels—whether you know every step already or have never learned choreography before. Ages 18+.
It started with a poster
Chicago Thriller began in 2012, when a poster in a laundromat window advertising a new “Thriller” flash mob organized by Troy Hilbrands caught the attention of Julie Dahlinger.
At the very first rehearsal, an unexpected problem arose: the original dance instructor couldn’t make it. Someone needed to step in and teach the dance.
Julie volunteered.
What was supposed to be one performance became Chicago’s annual Halloween tradition. Julie aka “Mrs.J” has been teaching and leading the group ever since, helping dancers and non-dancers alike learn the original choreography from the 1983 “Thriller” music video and, more importantly, creating a place where people can show up, be a little ridiculous, make friends and become zombies together.
Troy Hilbrands aka “Daddy Zombie” has returned to the realm of the living and is now a Zombie Emeritus, but the group continues under the leadership of Mrs. J and our Grateful Undead team of volunteers.
Mrs. J (Mrs. Jackson)
Artistic Director, Organizer & Dance Instructor
Undead since 2012
Zombie Wrangler Gina
Co-Organizer & Treasurer
Undead since 2016
Brother Moonwalk
Dance Captain
Undead since 2013
Sister Moonwalk
Dance Captain
Undead since 2016
DD Wendy
“Dance Day” Performance Manager
Undead since 2021
SS-sarah
Sunday Studio Rehearsal Manager
Undead since 2017
Old Souls and Fresh Meat Welcome
More than 400 people have danced with Chicago Thriller over the years, joining us for Halloween parades, special events and performances throughout Chicago.
Some return year after year. Others walk into rehearsal not knowing a soul.
That’s part of what makes Chicago Thriller special.
We’re a community first. You don’t need to be a professional dancer—or even consider yourself a dancer—to join us. Bring your enthusiasm, your willingness to learn and your best zombie walk.
We’ll take care of the rest.