Dancing In the... hallway?

Each year, one of the more adventurous dance classes executes a "free dance" across campus. Armed with iPods, the class creates a playlist to jam out to in public places. The catch? Because all of the dancers are plugged in, to the average observer, they're just shaking their booty to the sounds of silence. Although I have never participated, I have witnessed this type of derive twice and always with a big smile on my face. The dancer burst into Buntrock and show off their best moves outside of the Cage and the PO boxes, extremely public venues. I have watched some people walk as far away as quickly as possible, people join in, whispering, stares, laughter, and photographs taken. It's a simple, yet peaceful spectacle that upsets the natural order. First of all, silently dancing in public with only your iPod is total taboo (although I recently saw a 10 year old girl in an airport trying this out, and I wanted to be her best friend). But it also takes up space. This area is a meeting place, a place of peace to study and chat, and generally a taboo free zone. And for those people who just felt totally uncomfortable, they were forced to find a new comfortable space to enjoy their coffee. The dancers don't stay long though, maybe a song or two. Then they move around to other public places on campus, intending to make a scene and thoroughly enjoy themselves. I don't think a derive has to only push people outside of their comfort zone though. I have talked to several people, after seeing this spectacle who have expressed great interest in taking this class, and I feel the same way. Others were inspired to upset the order and immerse themselves in the joy that is art. I'm so inspired, you all better watch out for my sweet moves to pop out of nowhere!