Michael Jackson fans witnessed a very special moment at the 16th Annual World Choreography Awards 2026 as some of the original dancers from his legendary SMOOTH CRIMINAL short film reunited on stage for a spectacular recreation of the iconic production.
Held at Avalon Hollywood, the ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements in choreography while honouring some of the industry’s most influential creative talents. One of the evening’s highlights was undoubtedly the return of SMOOTH CRIMINAL, bringing familiar faces and unforgettable choreography back to life more than three decades after Michael Jackson first captivated audiences with the production.
A SMOOTH CRIMINAL Reunion
For Michael Jackson fans, seeing some of the original performers together again was particularly exciting.
Among the dancers appearing in the recreation were Eddie Garcia, Cindera Che, Kim Blank and Lisa Kellogg, all familiar faces associated with Michael Jackson’s legendary SMOOTH CRIMINAL short film.
Their appearance offered a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the talented performers who helped transform Michael’s vision into one of the most memorable cinematic moments in music history.
Kevin Stea, another dancer connected to Michael Jackson’s iconic short films, was also present at the ceremony. Known for his appearances in BLACK OR WHITE and BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR, Stea served as master of ceremonies for the evening and was also believed to have participated in the SMOOTH CRIMINAL recreation.
The performance also featured other dancers connected to Michael Jackson’s extraordinary career, including Charles “Chucky” Klapow, who later became familiar to fans through the THIS IS IT concert rehearsals.
Seeing these performers together was a reminder that Michael Jackson’s choreography continues to bring together generations of dancers who helped shape his artistic legacy.
Vincent Paterson Receives Legacy Award
Another major highlight of the evening was the recognition of Vincent Paterson, who received the prestigious Legacy Award at the 2026 World Choreography Awards.
For Michael Jackson fans, Paterson’s contribution to Michael’s artistic legacy is particularly significant.
As one of Michael’s most important collaborators, Paterson helped shape some of his most iconic visual productions, including BAD Tour, SMOOTH CRIMINAL, BLACK OR WHITE and BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR.
His work helped establish Michael Jackson’s short films as groundbreaking artistic productions, combining choreography, storytelling, cinematography and music into unforgettable experiences.
The Legacy Award was a fitting recognition of a creative career that continues to inspire choreographers and performers around the world.
Michael Jackson’s Legacy Lives Through Dance
More than three decades after SMOOTH CRIMINAL first appeared, its choreography remains instantly recognisable and continues to influence dancers across generations.
The World Choreography Awards offered a particularly meaningful celebration of that legacy, bringing together performers who were part of Michael Jackson’s original productions alongside artists inspired by his extraordinary work.
Seeing familiar dancers return to the stage was not simply a nostalgic moment. It was a celebration of the creativity, dedication and talent behind Michael Jackson’s unforgettable visual masterpieces.
SMOOTH CRIMINAL remains one of Michael’s most celebrated short films, and the 2026 recreation was a wonderful reminder that its magic continues to live on through the people who helped bring it to life.
For Michael Jackson fans, it was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments of the evening.
