So you want to be a Rockette, huh? The Radio City Rockettes, founded as the Missouri Rockets in 1925, is one of the most exclusive dance troupes in the world. It's tough to get in, but there are plenty of ways to get ahead of the crowd.
Qualifications
Auditions take place in August each year for the Radio City Music Spectacular. You must be 18 by August of the current year to audition. Both men and women are accepted. Rockettes are expected to be proficient in tap and jazz, and pointe experience also helps. Now that the Rockettes are also in the recording business, singing talent is a plus. Of course, the most stringent requirement is height; dancers must be between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 10-1/2 inches tall. If you don't fall within that range, you're out of luck.
Tips
The Rockettes offer Summer Intensive and Rockette Experience programs, both designed to help potential Rockettes brush up on their skills and learn what being in the Rockettes is really all about. Participating in these programs is probably the best way to get noticed by the company. Also, try to contact former Rockettes and ask them about their experiences. They might have insider secrets that only a Rockette could tell you.
Audition Day
Come to the audition prepared, well-rested and with a smile on your face. Check out photos of past auditions to get an idea of what to wear and do your hair and makeup. Concentrate on your own performance and don't worry about what anyone else is doing. And try to have fun--it will make you dance better and stand out from the crowd. Good luck!
