The Rockettes: Celebrating a Century of Dance

The Rockettes, a renowned dance troupe, originated in Missouri in 1925 under the direction of choreographer Russell Markert. Initially named the Missouri Rockets, they performed at the Missouri Theater in St. Louis before relocating to New York City in 1932. Their debut at Radio City Music Hall coincided with its opening in December 1932, although the initial stage show was not well-received. By December 1933, the group had rebranded as The Rockettes and introduced their first Christmas show, which featured iconic performances such as the "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and "The Living Nativity." These performances have become staples of the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which runs through January 5 each year.

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The Rockettes maintain a demanding rehearsal schedule, with dancers currently rehearsing for six weeks at six hours per day in preparation for the Christmas Spectacular. Julie Branam, the director of choreography and a former Rockette, noted the evolution of dance styles within the troupe, highlighting their versatility across genres such as tap, ballet, and jazz. The kick line, a signature element of their performances, has also seen an increase in tempo, now kicking at 152 beats per minute compared to 148 in previous years, enhancing the uniformity of their movements.

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Throughout their history, many Rockettes have transitioned to successful careers on Broadway and in Hollywood. Notable figures include Lucille Bremer, who starred alongside Judy Garland in "Meet Me in St. Louis," and Vera-Ellen, who, after being dismissed from the Rockettes for her individuality, became a prominent dancer in films like "White Christmas." The legacy of The Rockettes is not only marked by their performances but also by the personal stories of those who have been part of the troupe, such as Kerri Pearsall, who followed in her mother Margaret's footsteps, both having danced as Rockettes.

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The Rockettes have faced various challenges throughout their performances, including unexpected incidents involving animals. Kerri Pearsall recounted an incident where a camel from the "Living Nativity" segment kicked a dancer, necessitating a hospital visit. Another memorable moment involved a camel flooding a quick-change room, ruining several pairs of shoes. Despite these challenges, the show has continued to thrive, showcasing the resilience and dedication of the dancers.

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As The Rockettes celebrate their centennial, they reflect on their rich history and the evolution of their performances. The current cast emphasizes the importance of teamwork and precision, which have been hallmarks of the troupe since its inception.

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• “When you’re in between those two ends, it's all about guiding and working together.” — Kerri Pearsall, Former Rockette

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• “When I did the kick line, we kicked at 148 beats per minute and now they kick at 152 beats per minutes. Through the years we found that it helps with the uniformity of the kicks.” — Julie Branam, Director of Choreography

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• “A camel kicked one of the girls, and she had to go the hospital in her Nativity costume and then explain what happened,” — Kerri Pearsall, Former Rockette

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The Rockettes continue to captivate audiences with their precision and artistry, marking a significant milestone in the world of dance and entertainment.

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