There are not only many different genres of dancing but also different events that gained popularity and became social gatherings. The phenomenon of the so-called “flash mob” has its own history and culture. Dance flash mobs are mostly events when a crowd gathers in a public setting to perform a visually stunning dance performance. The first recorded flash mob happened in New York City when Harper’s Magazine senior editor Bill Wasik invited people to assemble at Macy’s Department Store. Some gathered in the lobby of a hotel, while others feigned to be tourists travelling by bus. Flash mobs have changed over time to incorporate intricate dance routines, musical performances, or concerts that astonish audiences and provide individuals with an enjoyable break from their everyday lives.
But what are the origins of the term “flash mob”? In a blog post made in the time following Wasik’s event in 2003, the word “flash mob,” as it is used today, was first used in writing. The previous phrase “smart mob” served as a precursor for this one.
The Concise Oxford English Dictionary added the term “flash mob” to its 11th edition on July 8, 2004, characterising it as a “unusual and pointless act” and distinguishing it from other sorts of smart mobs, such as demonstrations, performances, and other gatherings. The verb derivatives flash mobber and flash mobbing are also recognised. According to Webster’s New Millennium Dictionary of English, a flash mob is “a group of people who organise on the Internet and then quickly assemble in a public place, do something bizarre, and disperse.”
Initially, flash mobs were a type of performance art. Flash mobs may bear a certain resemblance to political rallies, despite their origins being apolitical. Street theatre was a tool used by groups like the Yippies in the 1960s to educate the public about political problems. One way to conceptualise flash mobs is as a type of smart mob, which is a phrase and idea put forth by writer Howard Rheingold in his 2002 book Smart Mobs: The Next Social Revolution.
Furthermore, performances by flash mobs might involve music, dances, or even efforts to break records. While organising a large-scale gathering of people might be challenging, the success of a flash mob can have significant benefits for both the participants and spectators.
What to notice when you plan to participate or organise a flash mob:
- A flash mob does not excuse violent behaviour or vandalism. It should only be an expression of dance art with the aim of bringing joy to the spectators.
- Planning is everything! In order to create a smooth experience, you should plan a long period of time ahead and think carefully about every step.
- Think of the right occasion for your flash mob, since there are many possibilities. A good event would be, for example, a birthday or a wedding.
- Preparation is key! It is also important to note that you may need additional equipment and items to include in your performance. You should definitely do many rehearsals before the actual day so you can make sure that everything goes smoothly and the spectators are amazed by your surprise act.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flash_mob
https://www.wikihow.com/Organize-a-Flash-Mob
