Prison inmates gather in yard then pull off incredible Michael Jackson flash mob getting 45M views
Imagine a viral sensation: inmates clad in orange jumpsuits, dancing in perfect sync to Michael Jackson’s “This Is It.” This 2010 video, from the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) in the Philippines, became a global hit.
These “CPDRC Dancing Inmates” weren’t professional dancers but prisoners using dance as exercise. Despite challenges like gang dynamics and criticism for exploitation, their performances resonated worldwide.
Their fame attracted visits from professionals like Travis Payne, Michael Jackson’s choreographer. Their rendition of “They Don’t Care About Us” struck a chord globally, showcasing the power of dance even in adversity.
Although controversies arose over donations, the spirit of dance persists in CPDRC, demonstrating resilience and the universal language of art.
Byron F. Garcia’s YouTube channel offers a glimpse into this unique blend of choreography and incarceration, revealing the transformative impact of dance in unexpected places.