Learn it. Rehearse it. Perform it.
Saturday 31 October 2026 | 12 noon | Carlisle city centre
This Halloween, Carlisle city centre will come alive as people of all ages join together for one unforgettable mass dance.
Carlisle’s BIG THRILL is an exciting community performance created by Dance Ahead CIC. Whether you are an experienced dancer, a complete beginner or simply ready to try something new, you are invited to learn the routine, join the rehearsals and perform as part of one enormous dancing community.
Individuals, families, friends, schools, community groups and businesses are all welcome. No professional dance experience is needed.
Book your place today to be part of this exciting community adventure!
What is Carlisle’s BIG THRILL?
BIG THRILL is more than a performance—it is an opportunity for people from across Carlisle and beyond to move, create and perform together.
When you book, you will receive everything you need to begin learning the dance. You will also have opportunities to rehearse with other participants before joining the full cast in Carlisle city centre on Halloween.
Learn it
Begin learning the routine using the practice information and resources provided to booked participants.
Rehearse it
Build your confidence and meet other participants through our organised rehearsal opportunities. Dates and arrangements will be shared with everyone who books.
Perform it
Come together for the final mass dance performance at 12 noon on Saturday 31 October 2026.
Who can take part?
BIG THRILL is designed to bring the whole community together.
You can join:
- By yourself
- With friends or family
- As a school or youth group
- As a dance or community group
- With your workplace or business team
Children and young people are welcome. Please select the appropriate ticket and read the supervision information provided during booking.
The choreography will be taught clearly and can be approached at a level that feels comfortable for you. If you would like to discuss access or additional support before booking, please contact info@danceahead.co.uk.
Tickets
- Early Bird Thrill Seeker: £8
- Standard Thrill Seeker: £10
- Family Thrill—four people: £30
- Thrill Squad—five people: £40
- Thrill Crew—ten people: £75
- Supported Thrill Seeker: £5
- Pay It Forward Thrill Seeker: £15
Early Bird and Supported places are limited and subject to availability.
Book your place
Choose your ticket below and get ready to join Carlisle’s BIG THRILL.
If the booking panel does not appear, you can book directly at:
https://bookwhen.com/danceahead
A message from Dance Ahead CIC
“I’m incredibly excited to bring Carlisle’s BIG THRILL to the city centre this Halloween. There’s something really powerful—and wonderfully joyful—about people of all ages and experiences coming together to learn, rehearse and perform as one huge dancing community. I can’t wait to see Carlisle come alive with movement, imagination and a little Halloween magic!”
Zoë Leigh Gadd
Executive & Artistic Director, Dance Ahead CIC
Frequently asked questions
Do I need dance experience?
Not at all. The event is open to experienced dancers, complete beginners and everyone in between.
Do I need to attend every rehearsal?
Full rehearsal arrangements will be sent to participants. Learning resources will help you practise between organised sessions.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for dancing. Further guidance about costumes, arrival arrangements and what to bring will be sent before the performance.
Where will the performance take place?
The performance will take place in Carlisle city centre. Exact arrival, meeting-point and participant information will be sent to everyone who books.
Can I book for a group?
Yes. Family and group tickets are available for four, five or ten participants. Schools, businesses and community groups are warmly encouraged to take part.
What if I have an access question?
Please email info@danceahead.co.uk before booking and we will be happy to discuss your requirements.
Ready to join the BIG THRILL?
Book your place, start learning and become part of Carlisle’s biggest Halloween dance experience.
Having trouble viewing the booking panel?
Book Carlisle’s BIG THRILL directly through Bookwhen
Follow the Facebook Event
Join in the discussions and let the community know you’re getting ready to THRILL!