Description: Bring home the holiday magic of the Radio City Rockettes with festive recipes, showstopping sips, DIY crafts, and behind-the-scenes tidbits from the iconic Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes. Celebrate the holiday season in New York City style!
Brief description:
Initially known as the "Missouri Rockets," this iconic dance company was founded by choreographer Russell Markert, and originally debuted in St. Louis, Missouri. Markert had a vision: precision, poise, and perfection. While in New York rehearsing for a Broadway show, the group was discovered by theater producer S.L. "Roxy" Rothafel. After seeing them perform, Roxy pleaded with Markert to have the dancers stay in New York. In 1927, the dance company relocated to New York City and in 1932, finally settled at their home--Radio City Music Hall (R)--officially becoming known as the Rockettes. In 1933, the annual Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes began featuring the original, classic numbers "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and the "Living Nativity," both of which still appear in the show today.
The Rockettes have been part of Americana throughout their history. Beginning in the 1930s and for more than 40 years, the Rockettes performed as the opening act for hundreds of the greatest Hollywood films and premieres at Radio City Music Hall. They were among the first entertainers to volunteer for the USO during World War II and earned international acclaim in 1936 by winning the grand prize at the Paris Exposition de Dance. In addition to their famed Christmas Spectacular, the Rockettes have headlined shows at Radio City Music Hall such as the Easter Extravaganza, New York Spring Spectacular, and New York Spectacular. They are an integral part of the holidays in New York City, appearing annually in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting.