The iconic Radio City Rockettes are celebrating their 100th anniversary this week, marking a century of dazzling audiences with their precision dance and high-kicking routines. The milestone coincides with the opening of their annual "Christmas Spectacular" at Radio City Music Hall in New York, an event that has become a cherished holiday tradition.
From their humble beginnings in the Midwest, the troupe has evolved into a global phenomenon, known for their athleticism, elaborate costumes, and synchronized performances. This year's show promises a blend of cherished traditions and modern innovations, captivating a new generation of fans.
Key Takeaways
- The Radio City Rockettes are marking their 100th anniversary.
- The "Christmas Spectacular" opens this week, featuring classic and new elements.
- The troupe originated as the "Missouri Rockets" in St. Louis in 1925.
- Dancers perform over 200 kicks per 90-minute show.
- Modern technology, like drones and immersive sound, enhances traditional choreography.
A Century of Precision and Performance
The Rockettes' journey began in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1925, where they were first known as the "Missouri Rockets." This initial troupe consisted of 16 dancers, laying the groundwork for what would become one of America's most enduring dance companies. Their move to New York City and subsequent residency at the newly built Radio City Music Hall in 1932 solidified their place in the city's cultural landscape.
Theater impresario S.L. "Roxy" Rothafel was instrumental in bringing the group to New York, initially renaming them the "Roxyettes" before settling on the familiar "Rockettes." Their first "Christmas Spectacular" premiered in 1933, quickly becoming a holiday staple.
Did You Know?
The Rockettes famously performed for American soldiers during World War II, bringing a piece of home to those serving abroad. This tradition of community engagement has been a hallmark of their history.
The Evolution of a Dance Icon
Over the past century, the Rockettes have grown significantly. What started as 16 dancers has expanded into a large company of more than 80 performers. This allows the troupe to stage multiple shows each day, sometimes as many as five, especially during the busy holiday season. Their performances incorporate a diverse range of dance styles, including jazz, tap, and ballet, showcasing their versatility.
Despite the changes, the dream of joining the Rockettes remains strong for many aspiring dancers. Isabelle Harris, a 20-year-old new Rockette from Utah, expressed her excitement about being part of this milestone year.
"In my mind, the Rockettes were this amazing, strong, unique, glamorous group of women that I wanted to be a part of," Harris said before a recent rehearsal. "It’s so exciting to be joining the line this specific year."
Behind the Scenes: Athletes Dripping in Diamonds
The Rockettes are not just dancers; they are highly trained athletes. Each 90-minute, intermissionless show demands immense stamina and precision. Dancers perform an estimated more than 200 kicks during every performance. This rigorous schedule requires intense physical conditioning and dedication.
Taylor Shimko, an assistant dance captain in her 16th season, highlighted the demanding nature of their work. "We say that we’re athletes dripping in diamonds. Every part of this is hard work, but it’s all about making it appear as though it’s easy."
A Legacy of Resilience
The Rockettes have faced various challenges throughout their history. In the 1960s, their popularity saw a decline amid changing cultural landscapes. They even went on strike for nearly a month in 1967, advocating for better pay. However, the troupe played a crucial role in saving Radio City Music Hall from demolition in the late 1970s, becoming the public face of the preservation campaign.
Integrating Tradition with Modern Innovation
Julie Branam, the longtime director of the "Christmas Spectacular," explains that the show is a careful blend of the old and the new. Many of the most famous numbers, such as the iconic "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," feature choreography that has remained largely unchanged since the troupe's founding. Some costume designs also retain their classic look, though materials are updated for durability.
Modern technology has enhanced the production significantly. Recent additions include digital projections, drones, and holographic animations. A notable new element is an actual double-decker sightseeing bus, which is a central feature in the "New York at Christmas" number. This year, the shows will also feature a new, immersive sound system, similar to those found in cutting-edge entertainment venues.
Increased Technical Abilities
Branam, a former Rockette herself, noted a significant change in the dancers' technical abilities over the years. This allows for faster kicks and more complex dance moves, pushing the boundaries of the traditional choreography while maintaining the signature precision.
The Rockettes' commitment to both tradition and innovation ensures that the "Christmas Spectacular" continues to captivate audiences. More than one million people are expected to view this year's shows, continuing a century-long legacy.
Impact and Cultural Significance
The Rockettes have become more than just a dance troupe; they are a cultural institution. Their performances extend beyond Radio City Music Hall, with appearances at major events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the NFL’s Super Bowl Halftime Show, and the Tony Awards.
Lauren Gaul, chair of the commercial dance program at Pace University and a former Rockette, emphasized the unique position of the troupe. "There is something about the Rockettes being the main event that is sentimental, riveting and iconic," Gaul stated. "Most times as dancers we are the background, the back up dancers, the core ensemble. We rarely get to headline."
The troupe also made history in 1987 when Jennifer Jones became the first Black Rockette, integrating the all-white troupe after decades of resistance. This marked an important step in their evolution.
Danelle Morgan, a dance captain in her 20th year, reflected on the profound impact of being a Rockette. "Being a Rockette is something I didn’t anticipate," she shared. "It becomes a piece of your identity, this job. It’s something that’s really special, and I didn’t necessarily see that coming."
- 1925: Troupe founded as the "Missouri Rockets."
- 1932: Move to Radio City Music Hall, renamed "Rockettes."
- 1933: First "Christmas Spectacular" premieres.
- 1967: Dancers go on strike for better pay.
- 1970s: Rockettes help save Radio City Music Hall from demolition.
- 1987: Jennifer Jones becomes the first Black Rockette.
- 2014: Touring productions end.
- 2025: 100th anniversary celebration.