It could happen when you least expect it.

You're at the mall -- or maybe on your way to class -- when suddenly the crowd of strangers surrounding you bursts into a choreographed and elaborate song and dance routine.

It's known as a flash mob, and it's the result of people coming together, usually arranging to meet over the Internet, to put on often-weird and always imaginative displays of creativity in public spaces.

The Richmond Multicultural Concerns Society (RMCS) is hoping to create its own flash mobs next year, and they got a boost with a just-announced $25,000 community grant from the B.C. government this week.

Andrea Arnot from the RMCS is in charge of the project -- operating under the name "Leaps & Bounds" - and is hoping that the performances will get people talking about culture in our diverse community.

Arnot said she got the idea to put on a flash mob when she first saw one herself while walking down Robson Street during the Olympics.

"People of different cultures, ages and abilities were all dancing together," said Arnot. "I definitely had an 'ah ha' moment. By building an intercultural flash mob, we're trying to extend that feeling of togetherness, and show that multiculturalism is alive well, and relevant."

The performances are still in the early phases of planning, but Arnot is hoping to get 50 to 75 dancers in on the act, putting on a show that weaves together five different styles of cultural dancing, including South Asian classical, Cuban rhythm and Filipino dances.

"This is about much more than just dance," added Arnot.

"We're hosting online forums for conversation, and intercultural dialogues between the dance troupe members. Yes, we're learning to dance together, but we're also learning about each others' cultures."

"Any step we can take to fight racism is a good step," said Rob Howard, Richmond Centre MLA, in a press release. "A flash mob is an engaging and innovative way to get people talking multiculturalism and how to foster understanding."

Arnot is on the lookout for eager volunteers who are willing to dance. If you think you might be interested, call 604-248-0433 or send an email to andrea@rmcs.bc.ca.

Rehearsals start in September and go to December. The flash mobs will be appearing around the city in the 2011.