For more than three quarters of a century, the world famous Radio City Rockettes have been a legendary force in entertainment. With a rich and storied history, the troupe has kicked their way into the hearts of millions of people worldwide. Over the years, the Rockettes have grown into something far greater than a precision dance company. They have become a beloved national icon and a true slice of Americana. In addition to their starring role in The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, these beautiful and talented women have participated in many great historical moments and events – one tradition lending support to another tradition. The Rockettes have entertained audiences with their unrelenting exuberance, enthusiasm, talent and spirit, and will continue to do so for many years to come. The Radio City Rockettes began kicking up their heels under the supervision of their founder Russell Markert, dazzling audiences with their exactness, precision and uniformity. In the earlier years, the Rockettes appeared at Radio City Music Hall in hundreds of stage spectaculars that accompanied the greatest Hollywood films and premieres of the day. In addition to their extraordinary schedule, the Rockettes participated in many historical and memorable events throughout the years. They starred in USO Tours during WWII, won the grand prize at the "Paris Exposition de Dance" in 1936, and more recently performed their show-stopping eye high kicks at the "Super Bowl Halftime Show" in 1988, where they performed before a television audience of 150 million viewers.
Each year the Rockettes perform in the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and The Columbus Day Parade, again exemplifying two traditions coming together. In 2001, the Rockettes were invited to perform at the "2001 Presidential Inauguration Ceremony" in Washington D.C. where the Rockettes danced their way down the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. And no holiday season is complete without the Rockettes helping to light up Rockefeller Center with their annual performance in the NBC Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony.
The Rockettes are a national treasure. With every year, the Rockettes become further entwined into the fabric of Christmas in the United States. Their annual starring role in The Radio City Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, and in numerous other cities across the United States, is enjoyed by more people in one year than any other live show in America - more than 2.1 million people annually. The New York Times corroborates their talent by saying, "Best of all, as always, are the miraculous Rockettes in their crisp costumes, smiling and tapping their way flawlessly everywhere…"
In 2001, the Radio City Rockettes celebrated 75 years of eye-high kicks and precision dance with the same enthusiasm and vigor that has become their signature trademark. The overwhelming appeal of the world's most beloved dance company continues to grow with each holiday season. The New York Times also says, "The Rockettes are as precise and talented as ever, and their bright smiles and unison dancing evoke cheers and applause in old favorites like the "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers". The overwhelming appeal of the Rockettes is undeniable.
The 21st century will continue to preserve Russell Markert's incredible vision of the Rockettes while Radio City Entertainment's creators, in conjunction with renowned choreographers, will look to further develop and expand upon their limitless possibilities. The Rockettes will continue to explore new dance repertoires, styles and techniques that reflect their exciting, contemporary and modern style. Maintaining tradition while incorporating innovative and fresh styles of dance into their repertoire is a balance that only the Rockettes can strike with perfection. As the saying goes, “You ain’t seen nothing yet” with these amazing dancers!
"Wooden Soldiers"
