Knoxville’s Shimmy Mob raises awareness of domestic violence issues

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On May 13, “Shimmy Mobs” appeared across the world on World Belly Dance Day to bring awareness and raise funds for domestic violence victims. Knoxville’s Shimmy Mob team isn’t done yet.

The group’s members plan on showcasing their moves at events all summer—and this Friday they will be performing at the Knoxville Arts & Fine Crafts Center (1127 N. Broadway) for First Friday at 6 p.m., and at the Bob Dylan Birthday Bash on Market Square at 8 p.m.

The Shimmy Mob consists of volunteers (both dancers and non-dancers) who perform flash mob-style—not just to entertain onlookers, but also to help bring public awareness to domestic violence organizations. Nationally, there are 172 Shimmy Mob dance groups with over 2,100 members, and each chapter chooses a local domestic violence organization to help them raise funds. Knoxville’s team assists the Knoxville Family Justice Center, which provides counseling and legal assistance for victims of domestic violence.

“You want to know where your money is going, so we get to pick who we want to support,” says Sandy Larson, team leader of Knoxville’s Shimmy Mob.

“If no one wants to donate money, at least we brought awareness of the cause,” says Erin Keegan, a member of the Shimmy Mob.

Knoxville’s Shimmy Mob started four years ago with six members. This year, the team has grown to 31 members. It is not difficult to join—there’s a $35 fee, and members receive a shirt and a DVD of the choreography. Members are expected to know the dance by the time the group meets for rehearsal.

Larson is a professional dance teacher at Sandsation Dance and Yoga. She holds practices with Shimmy Mob members, teaching them belly dancing as well.

“Can’t imagine doing it any other way. It’s hard to do on your own,” Larson says. “It’s good to have a dancer to teach it from the ground up. We have a ball. People have different strengths. Some are better at passing a hat around than dancing.”

The Shimmy Mob has performed for various events in the past, such as Jazz in the Park, the Rossini Festival, and Vestival. Upcoming performances include the Knoxville Pride Parade, June 17, 11 a.m. downtown; KMA’s Alive After Five at the Knoxville Museum of Art, July 21, 7 p.m.; and the Karns Festival, July 22, 2 p.m.

Featured photo by Mike Monsoor

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