The inmates of Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC), who became a famous YouTube sensation for their “Thriller” dance video, performed a stage tribute for their idol, Michael Jackson.

After being told of Jackson’s death Thursday in Los Angeles, the 1,500 inmates at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center hit the exercise yard, practicing for nine hours Friday night _ and into the wee hours of Saturday morning _ for the show. They took breaks only to eat or when it rained, said professional choreographer Gwendolyn Lador, hired by the prison to teach the inmates the dance.

‘Thriller’ made them famous all over the world. Most of the inmates proclaimed being avid fans of the King of Pop since their childhood. He became inspiration and brought back their self-esteem. They believe that “if not for Michael Jackson they would not have this international recognition”.

Watch the video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMnk7lh9M3o