2008 marks the 76th year for the Christmas Spectacular starring the world famous Rockettes, re-imagined for large-scale venues like the Ford Center. On December 26 to 28, be prepared to be dazzled by the magic of this brand new show that replicates the original Radio City Music Hall production. The show is presented by Madison Square Garden Entertainment, and will be playing to audiences in 18 cities across the nation.
    The production company, which consists of a cast of 175 people and 10 live animals, will hit the road in 34 trucks and 16 buses, traveling over 4,900 miles during the 60-day tour. The tour features an “ice rink” made of Teflon, and one of the largest LED screens to travel with a tour. Three members of the famous dance line attended OCU: Nita Borchardt, Karen Boyd Bethel and Amy Klingler.
    Some of the show’s favorite production numbers include “Here Comes Santa Clause,” which features 40 cast members dressed as Santa; the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” which is the signature Rockette number for precision performances; the “Living Nativity” which features 10 live animals; as well as a flying Santa Claus, teddy bears and rag dolls galore.
    The Rocketts began in 1925 as the “Missouri Rockets” and debuted in St. Louis under creator Russell Markert. His dream was to recreate the John Tiller girls in the Ziegfeld Follies of 1922 – with American girls who were taller, had longer legs and could do complicated tap routines and eye-high kicks in a dance line, achieving absolute precision. The show was brought to New York by showman S.L. “Roxy” Rothafel, who dubbed the 16 girls the “Roxyettes.” Now a 36-member Rockette kick line, the girls perform intricate routines, but move as one dancer. Everything from the height, costumes and steps are kept identical.
    The Rockettes have performed at such events as USO tours during WWII, Super Bowl halftime shows, the 2001 and 2005 Presidential Inauguration ceremonies and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as local community and charitable events while touring the country.
    Since 1932, more than 3,000 women have danced as Rockettes, and hundreds of women audition each year for a coveted position on the internationally known dance line.
    Tickets can be purchased online at www.okfordcenter.com