Synchronization beyond belief, music that excites your ears for the holiday season, dancers with perfect smiles and technique, and a show that leaves you gazing in disbelief from beginning to end, the Rockettes’ yearly “Christmas Spectacular” truly earns its name. With shows running from November 8 to December 30, the Rockettes celebrate the holiday season with their one-of-a-kind performance set complete with their renowned soldier line and giddy finale full of snowflakes and your favorite holiday tunes.
If you haven’t seen the Rockettes, then this is the perfect time to take a break from the holiday stress and catch a show. The Rockettes are a precision dance company that originally performed out of Radio City Music Hall in New York City, but today the company travels all across the country. During the Christmas season, the Rockettes perform five shows a day, seven days a week, known as their “Christmas Spectacular.” The dance group is most well-known for their kick line in perfect unison, which is included at the end of every performance, as well as their modern dance and classic ballet style.
While there is a lot of chatter about the Nutcracker holiday performance put on by the Boston Ballet, the Rockettes provide a more professional setting and show. The show is made with all ages in mind, so bring the whole family along because it will be a night to remember. In the Rockettes’ 81st year, the show features classic routines like “The Living Nativity,” “The 12 Days of Christmas,” and “The Nutcracker.” At only ninety-minutes, the show includes Santa’s workshop, fireworks, friendly rag dolls and snow. Thousands of girls try out for the Rockettes each year, but only the best 36 dancers make the cut, guaranteeing this show to be of a higher skill level than the Nutcracker.
One of the most magical parts of the Rockettes’ “Christmas Spectacular” is the venue. Yes, the Boston Opera House is an amazing venue with a beautiful stage and ample seating, but the Wang Theater, home of the Rockettes, is absolutely breathtaking. The theater’s regal design and billowing seat plan makes for a special show for each audience member, no matter where you sit. While reminiscing on her Rockettes experience, junior Erica White said, “the stage was incredible. It really made the whole production so professional.”
The tickets, depending on the seating area, typically range from $45-$250. The price may seem higher than most shows, but understand that you will leave the show knowing you spent your money wisely. Junior Mairead Treanor remembers seeing the Rockettes two weeks before Christmas. “I fell in love with how Christmas-y it was by putting me in the ultimate seasonal spirit”, she said.
Whether you choose to see the Rockettes or the Nutcracker this holiday season, realize that both performances have been preparing for months and are sure to get you into the holiday mood. When you do make your choice, make sure to keep in mind the experience of the Rockettes dancers. Their renowned status of perfection and holiday cheer definitely add to the reasons of why you should buy a ticket to see the “Christmas Spectacular” this holiday season.