The Radio City Rockettes are known for their precision, glamour, and high-energy performances in the Christmas Spectacular. But behind the dazzling smiles and iconic kicks, there’s a strict set of rules that these talented dancers must adhere to. Here are 11 surprising guidelines that keep the Rockettes on their toes:
Rockettes Must Be 18 or Older
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While there’s no maximum age limit for a Rockette, aspiring dancers must be at least 18 years old to audition. Talent, physical fitness, and dance background are key factors in the selection process, proving that age is just a number when it comes to achieving Rockette status. In 2023, a 92-year-old even auditioned, showcasing the enduring appeal of this iconic dance troupe.
Rockettes Must Wear Red Lipstick
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The vibrant red lip is a signature element of the Rockette look, complementing their costumes and adding to the overall glamour. While eyelashes and red lipstick are mandatory, Rockettes have flexibility with other makeup choices, allowing them to personalize their look while maintaining a cohesive stage presence.
Rockettes Do Their Own Makeup
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Contrary to popular belief, there’s no team of makeup artists backstage. Each Rockette is responsible for her own hair and makeup, including the iconic French twist and red lipstick. This requires skill, efficiency, and a keen eye for detail, as they often have limited time between performances.
Rockettes’ Hair Must Be in a French Twist
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The classic French twist is a non-negotiable hairstyle for the Rockettes. This elegant updo is essential for accommodating various hats and headpieces throughout the show, ensuring a polished and consistent look regardless of the costume changes.
Rockettes’ Kicks Must Reach Eye-Level
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The Rockettes’ signature high kicks are legendary. Every kick must precisely reach eye level, creating a visually stunning and synchronized line. This requires incredible strength, flexibility, and countless hours of practice.
Rockettes Don’t Have to Be the Same Height
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The seemingly uniform height of the Rockettes is a clever illusion. Taller dancers are positioned in the center, with gradually shorter dancers on the sides, creating the impression of a perfectly matched line. This strategic placement enhances the visual impact of their synchronized movements.
Rockettes Must Make Lightning-Fast Costume Changes
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With eight costume changes during the 90-minute show, the Rockettes have mastered the art of quick changes. Their backstage routine is as choreographed as their onstage performance, with a dedicated team of dressers ensuring seamless transitions between numbers. The fastest change takes a mere 78 seconds.
Rockettes Rehearse for Six Weeks Before Showtime
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The Rockettes’ flawless performances are the result of rigorous preparation. They endure six weeks of intensive rehearsals, six hours a day, six days a week, leading up to the show’s opening night. This demanding schedule ensures that every movement is perfected.
Rockettes Must Arrive at Rehearsal Warmed Up
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Once the show opens, there are no formal rehearsals. Rockettes are expected to arrive warmed up and ready to perform, utilizing their own preferred methods to prepare their bodies for the demanding routines. This individual responsibility demonstrates their commitment to maintaining peak physical condition.
Rockettes Must Maintain Personal Fitness Year-Round
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The demanding performance schedule requires year-round dedication to physical fitness. Rockettes engage in various activities during the off-season, from freelance dance work to participating in other high-profile events, ensuring they remain in top form for the next Christmas Spectacular.
Rockettes Must Re-Audition Every Year
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Even seasoned Rockettes must re-audition annually. This rigorous process ensures that the dance troupe maintains its exceptional standards and allows for fresh talent to join the ranks each year. The competitive auditions are a testament to the dedication and talent required to become a Radio City Rockette.
