RIVERSIDE - Zombies far and wide are invited to recreate Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video in Riverside on Saturday to try to set a Southern California record for the largest number of dancers.

The re-staging of the 1982 video in front of the Riverside courthouse on the eve of what would have been Jackson's 52nd birthday is being sponsored by the California Riverside Ballet and the city of Riverside.

"As far as we know, the Guinness Book of World Records for 'Thriller' is 15,000 -- and we know we're not going to get that," Judy Davis of the ballet told City News Service. "But we do hope to set a record for Southern California. We have a team of researchers trying to find whatever the current record is."

Davis said the event is intended to publicize the annual "Ghost Walk," which is scheduled this year for Oct. 22-23.

"Thriller" imitators have been a big part of Advertisement

[ Chatton and Associates ] "Ghost Walk" for 19 years, Davis said. Tickets for "Ghost Walk" will be $15, but the Saturday's event is free, Davis said.

The mass zombie dance is scheduled in front of the Riverside County Courthouse at 4050 Main St. at 5:45 p.m.

City spokesman Austin Carter said the fun will start at 4 p.m. with a Michael Jackson costume contest and guest appearances by Jackson dancers Eddie Garcia and Courtney Miller.

A class for learning the steps to "Thriller" starts at 5 p.m. and will be led by BJ Brasier, a choreographer who worked with Jackson, organizers said.

Music will be provided by DJ JoJo.

Fritts Ford will provide a stage and two flatbed trucks for dance instructors. Performance Riverside performers will lend their dancing talents as well, organizers said.

"Everyone asked to come in costume, either as Michael Jackson, a zombie or simply wear a Jackson T-shirt," a City of Riverside statement said.