High-kicking Radio City Rockettes mark 100 years with Christmas Spectacular

"NEW YORK -- A staple of the New York City holiday season is marking a century of wowing crowds: The high-kicking Radio City Rockettes are turning 100. The famed dance troupe will celebrate the anniversary with its annual Christmas Spectacular this week - a festive performance of synchronized dance routines that includes the troupe's signature precision kick line as well as the fan-favorite "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," in which the costumed dancers march in military-like formation and then famously collapse like dominoes."

"The Rockettes represent a throwback to old-time New York, when Broadway was dominated by extravagant music and dance spectacles, elaborate costumes and lavish sets. Their journey through the past century has seen their modest Midwest beginning as a troupe of 16 precision dancers evolve into a large company of more than 80 staging as many as five shows a day. The shows incorporate a range of dance styles, including jazz, tap and ballet."

The Radio City Rockettes celebrate their 100th anniversary with the annual Christmas Spectacular, featuring synchronized routines and the signature precision kick line. The troupe performs fan-favorite numbers such as the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, known for its military-like march and domino collapse. The Rockettes originated as the Missouri Rockets in 1925 and were brought to New York, later becoming the Rockettes. The Christmas show dates to 1933. The company expanded from 16 precision dancers to more than 80 performers, staging up to five shows daily and incorporating jazz, tap and ballet styles. Generations of girls have long aspired to join.

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