How do I become a Zombie with Thrill the Villages?

1. Be a resident of The Villages with a GREEN resident ID card.

2. Commit to in-person practice at least once a week for the months of August and first half of September. Attend practice 3 times the last two weeks of September and attend at least one of the 2 Sunday square rehearsals in mid October.

There are 3 opportunities to practice each week in August and September – you need to only come once a week, as all three will teach the same step for that week. Sunday midday OR Monday night. OR Thursday midday.

Missing 2 practices without prior notification and a plan on how you will learn the missed lessons to thrillthevillages@gmail.com may affect your performance opportunities.

3. Have a smartphone to bring to class. You will use your phone to register, sign a waiver, check into practice weekly, and get important information through the app Google Classroom.

4. Come to practices when they begin in August. There you will learn more about how to join.

The 2024 Practice Schedule will be posted mid-summer. You can see the schedule here.

2024 Practice schedule

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can be a “Thrill the Villages” zombie?

All Zombies for Thrill the Villages must be a Resident of The Villages and have a resident ID card.

Do I need any dance / exercise experience?

No dance experience is necessary, and you don’t have to be a performer or even a great dancer. Thriller is easy to learn and danced by Zombies that have their own style. We don’t all have to be exactly alike. Anyone can learn it if you are willing to practice.

When and where are the practices?

Practices begin the first week of August and go to mid October. You will have 3 opportunities each week to practice - Sunday noon, Monday evening, and Thursday midday. Check the "Practice Schedule" for exact times and locations.

Do I have to attend all the practices?

You must attend at least one practice each week. Please attend more that one if you'd like. We think it’s more fun, and you learn tips and tricks when we practice together.

How many performances do I have to participate in?

The main performance is Thrill Night, which is always the Saturday before Halloween - Oct 26 for 2024. There may be other opportunities to perform during the month. Those opportunities will be presented in September.

How much does it cost?

We ask for a one-time administrative fee of $2.00 which will be collected in mid-September.

Do I have to make my own costume?

That is half the fun. You can go all out or just dirty up something you find in the back of your closet. Most of our Thriller zombies visit the thrift stores for clothes to “zombie-up” that cost very little. Just be sure that you are able to move freely and safely, and always wear closed toe shoes (for performances as well as for practices).

What if I started practice but no longer can or want to participate?

While we will be sorry to see you go, we completely understand that things come up. Just let us know by emailing thrillthevillages@gmail.com. You are welcome to stay on our Thrill The Villages Facebook page and come back for our next year’s festivities.