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Flashmob - what a feeling!

Train stations and shopping centres will become unexpected performing stages as dance groups hold a series of Flashmobs for Voluntary Arts Week, which kicks off on Friday 15 May. It's aimed at teasing performance groups out of their usual rehearsal spaces to surprise their local communities. So whether you're planning a mass moonwalk in a mall or you get caught up in a dance Thriller, upload the result on social media using #bbcgetcreative.

Be it singing, dancing, music, amateur dramatics, circus skills or spoken word, Get Creative champions Voluntary Arts want you to make a public display of yourself. They're encouraging performance groups to hold spontaneous performances suddenly in a public place, a chance to get creative and delight audiences.

If you're thinking of holding a Flashmob and need some inspiration then read about Edinburgh Grand Opera's decision to take opera to the streets.

They're supposed to be a secret, but we know of a couple that are happening.

Check out the Voluntary Arts Week website where you can download a checklist to make sure you're fully prepared.

This year’s Voluntary Arts Week will take place from 15 - 24 May.

Voluntary Arts Week

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Feeling inspired?

Voluntary Arts top tips to run a safe and successful Flashmob

What to perform?

Search the internet for inspiration as to what's going to stop people in their tracks. It could be something you're already working on or a specially choreographed piece which takes in the area in which you'll perform.

Getting technical

Keep technical equipment to support your Flashmob to a minimum. Remember, electrical sockets are likely to be sparse as you'll be in a public space. Remember to stock up on batteries for your Boombox or Ghetto Blaster. Nominate someone to look after this equipment during your performance to ensure it doesn’t get damaged or stolen.

Costumes and props

You could use banners, whistles, streamers, stick-on moustaches, matching outfits etc. to animate your performance and grab people’s attention. Consider holding a workshop beforehand where everyone can get together to make what’s needed.

Pick a time and location

Choose a good location where you will have a captive audience. Maybe a local landmark, park or town centre could be a good option. Also think of a time that works best for your fellow Flashmobbers - the more the merrier. Have a wet weather contingency plan.

Health, safety and permission

It is important not to create unsafe obstructions, safety problems, or to prevent people from going about their usual business when Flashmobbing in a public place. Do a proper check of the area you are intending to use and if it looks like your Flashmob might cause a problem or there are safety / legal limitations in place, then you may have to explore other options. Flashmobbing outside? Make sure you know the local laws about large gatherings in certain areas - you can contact your local council for information on this. Remember you are aiming to entertain people so best to check first if you think there are likely to be any issues.

Flashmobbing inside

If your target is a shop / community centre / museum / train station – ask permission before you commit to using the space, to avoid getting into trouble.

Rehearse

It is highly recommended that you dedicate some time to rehearsing your Flashmob. Pencil in some rehearsals in the run-up to your performance and provide clear instructions.

Voluntary Arts Week

This year’s Voluntary Arts Week will take place from 15 - 24 May 2015 and there are lots of ways to get involved, whether you’re an arts and/or crafts group looking to promote your activities or an individual looking to take part in creative projects happening near you. To find out more visit their website.