Zumba flash mob takes over at The Forks

by Lucille Nolasco

Besides the regular attractions offered at The Forks, such as its eclectic shops, restaurants, and museums, visitors at the historic site were treated to a quite unusual entertainment on Saturday, May 13.

Zumba lovers across Winnipeg held an energy-filled 15-minute Zumba flash mob dance performance near the centre court, at exactly 2:00 p.m. Dressed in their multi-coloured and vibrant Zumba wear, participants moved and grooved to the different rhythms under the bright sun.

A flash mob is a group of people mobilized by social media to meet in a public place for the purpose of doing an unusual or seemingly random act of short duration. The Winnipeg event was part of a Canada-wide Zumba Flash Mob organized by Zumba Instructor (ZIN) Carmin Rosillo of Ottawa. Mobs danced to the same song, “Hula Hoop,” by Daddy Yankee. This song was created specially for Zumba classes around the world. ZIN Yvonne Bayer-Cheung was only too happy to organize and lead the Winnipeg team.

“I have always wanted to organize a Zumba Flash Mob, so I am happy to take on this opportunity. I have been teaching Zumba full-time now for the last five years, and I can say that the results are amazing and effective, as I have seen many people lose weight and transform their bodies and have a better outlook on life. People are generally happier and more positive when they exercise and lose weight.”

Bayer-Cheung promoted the event on social media, where the response was very positive as evidenced by the number of excited people who came and happily participated. Instructors, students, friends and families enthusiastically grooved to “Firehouse,” “Hula Hoop” and “Shape of You.”

They even did an encore of “Hula Hoop,” much to the delight of onlookers who took pictures and videos while enjoying the exuberant performance.

According to Bayer-Cheung, a video will be made of all the flash mobs across the country to showcase the Zumba love here in Canada.

Way to go, Team Winnipeg!

Lucille Nolasco is an announcer and creative writer at CKJS Radio 810 AM in Winnipeg. She hosts Afternoon Pasada, Monday through Friday, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. She is an ardent believer that “health is wealth” and she is a certified Zumba instructor. You can send your message or comments to Lucille at lucillern@gmail.com.

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Photos by Rey-ar Reyes