Radio City Rockettes New York, NY - Radio City Music Hall

The Rockettes: A Glimpse into History:

The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular has a storied history that began almost nine decades ago. Originally conceived as a way to keep the Radio City Music Hall active during the Christmas season, the show has since evolved into a global holiday phenomenon. Over the years, it has become a cherished tradition for locals and a must-see attraction for visitors from around the world.

The Unmistakable Rockettes:

Central to the show's allure are the Rockettes, a dance troupe that has become synonymous with precision, grace, and festive cheer. The Rockettes, known for their synchronized high kicks and impeccable choreography, bring a unique blend of talent and glamour to the stage. Comprising a select group of skilled and versatile dancers, the Rockettes have become cultural ambassadors, embodying the spirit of the holiday season with each performance.

Dazzling Performances:

The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is renowned for its dazzling array of performances that transport audiences to a winter wonderland of enchantment. From the iconic "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" to the breathtaking "Living Nativity," each act is a testament to the show's commitment to creating magical moments. With a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, the production seamlessly weaves together dance, music, and theatrical effects, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable experience for all.

Innovations and Traditions:

Over the years, the show has embraced technological advancements while preserving its timeless traditions. Innovations in set design, lighting, and special effects have elevated the production, yet the heart of the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular remains rooted in the cherished traditions that have made it a holiday institution.

A Global Tradition:

What sets the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular apart is its ability to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The show's universal appeal has turned it into a global phenomenon, with people from across the globe making the pilgrimage to New York City to witness the magic firsthand. Its televised broadcasts and international tours further extend the reach of this holiday extravaganza, spreading joy to audiences far and wide.

A Must-See Holiday Extravaganza:

As the curtains rise at Radio City Music Hall, the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular continues to enchant audiences with its timeless charm and festive spirit. For generations, it has been a source of joy, laughter, and holiday magic, creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, experiencing the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is not just a show; it's a celebration of the season, a tradition, and a touch of holiday enchantment in the heart of the Big Apple.

Fun Facts About the Rockettes

In 1957, the Rockettes made their inaugural appearance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking the beginning of a longstanding tradition. The first rendition of their renowned Christmas Spectacular show took place in 1933, captivating audiences with the holiday spirit. Notably, it was in 1987 that Jennifer Jones broke barriers by becoming the inaugural African American Rockette.

In their earlier days, the Rockettes graced the stages before movie screenings, showcasing distinct routines tailored to each film. The initial height requirement for dancers was shorter, but the current criteria range between 5’5″ and 5′ 10½”. Ingeniously, the Rockettes create an optical illusion of uniform height by strategically placing the tallest dancers in the center and aligning the rest in descending order.

The Rockettes' famous eye-high kicks, a visual spectacle, are achieved by kicking in parallel, reaching the exact eye-height of each dancer, creating the illusion of synchronized leg heights. On their busiest show days, these talented performers execute an astounding 1,200 kicks, demonstrating their precision and endurance.

The quick-change artistry of the Rockettes is showcased during their performance, with the swiftest costume transformation occurring in just 78 seconds, immediately following the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers. From its modest beginnings with 16 girls, the Rockettes have evolved into two casts comprising 80 members, with 36 taking the stage in each show and 4 on standby for contingencies.

Inspired by the British group, The Tiller Girls, and initially known as the Missouri Rockets, the Rockettes were founded in 1925 with a vision of absolute precision and uniformity in dance. Over the years, more than 3,000 women have joined the ranks of the Rockettes, showcasing proficiency in tap, jazz, and ballet.

Microphones embedded in their shoes enhance the sound of tapping, with a single Christmas Spectacular season consuming over 14,000 AA batteries. Remarkably, the Rockettes handle their own hair and makeup, sporting rosy cheeks created by felt circles taped onto their faces—30,000 of them used each season.

While some dance numbers vary annually, two classics, the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and Living Nativity, have remained unchanged since their inception. In the latter, real animals grace the stage, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them during their early morning or late-night walks near the Music Hall.