2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the Radio City Rockettes. For a century, these iconic dancers have impressing audiences with precision, outstanding choreography, and holiday magic, inspiring countless generations of dancers. From performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the Christmas in Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, this world-renowned company of performers has built a legacy of excellence in American culture.

“For one hundred years, these women have embodied a form of power that the world too often misunderstands: a power rooted in discipline so exacting it becomes poetry, in unity so seamless it becomes architecture, in glamour so precise it becomes a weapon,” shared Entertainment. This company has had a long and impactful history that speaks to the commitment of each dancer and those that worked behind the scenes to make this dream a reality.

History

The Rockettes were not always a staple in every New York vacation. The company was originally founded in 1925 under the name, the Missouri Rockets and worked in St. Louis with choreographer Russel Markert. In 1932, the dance company relocated to New York City, performing at Radio City Music Hall, and was renamed to the Roxyettes.

In 1933, the famous Christmas Spectacular show debuted according to the Rockettes. During World War II, the Rockettes were one of the first performers to volunteer with the United Service Organizations. Their energy and performance quality played a crucial role in uplifting and entertaining troops.

The Rockettes then made their debut in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1956 and have been a part of the annual event ever since.

In 1978, the Rockettes helped save the Radio City Music hall after the venue was slated to close. Their high-energy performances, distinct style, and entertainment value helped save the building from demolition, helping it receive landmark status. The Radio City Music Hall then underwent a major renovation, reinventing the gala featuring the Rockettes in 1999.

In 2008, the Christmas Spectacular was reimagined for its 75th anniversary. This update included ten new costumes, two brand-new numbers, including the fan-favorite “New York at Christmas.”

The Rockettes continued throughout the early 2000s to appear in some of the biggest events in entertainment, including the Tony Awards, MTV VMAs, and Saturday Night Live. They have also starred alongside A-list celebrities including Mariah Carey, Jimmy Fallon, and Kevin Hart.

Recently, they have launched the Dancer Development program, which aims to create a more inclusive talent pipeline to ensure the dance company attracts the best dancers from all backgrounds.

Impact

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Rockettes, the Museum of Broadway has opened a new exhibit entitled “The Rockettes 100th Anniversary: A Century of Sisterhood.” The exhibit features countless elements that represent the impact of the Rockettes throughout history and dance culture.

I have been a dancer since I was 2 year old, and I can vividly remember the first time I ever watched the extravagance that is the Christmas Spectacular Show at Radio City Music Hall. I remember walking into the warm theater after trekking   through the freezing cold New York air. I watched as talented dancers dazzled the stage, telling a story through movement and engaging audiences with their talent and dedication. I remember spending the night in my hotel that night, practicing the famous kick line that the Rockettes perform every night, dreaming of one day being good enough to dance just like them.

Personally, I believe the Rockettes have paved the way for female empowerment within the entertainment industry. Their discipline, athleticism, and precision have inspired a new wave of dancers to strive to be strong and fearless, traits that were often discouraged for women at the time the company was created.

When speaking to fellow CCHS Dance team member Leandra Liem, she shared, “The Rockettes are important to aspiring dancers to show them the beauty and joy of dance prevail through a celebrated, long-lasting program.” As an all-female company, the Rockettes have created a standard of excellence and precision that pushes the boundaries of what a female dancer can achieve.