100 Years of the Rockettes: Precision, Glamour, and Sisterhood
By NOS.3 Editorial Team
Few symbols capture the American imagination quite like the high-kicking line of the Radio City Rockettes. This year, the legendary troupe celebrates a century of precision, athleticism, and sisterhood, marking 100 years since choreographer Russell Markert founded the original Missouri Rockets in St. Louis. What began as a bold experiment in synchronized movement has become one of the most enduring icons of stage performance.
1940s Line Up | Image courtesy of the Rockettes
From St. Louis to the World Stage
When theater impresario S.L. “Roxy” Rothafel invited Markert and his dancers to New York in the early 1930s, they became the Roxyettes, and later, the Rockettes, anchoring the newly opened Radio City Music Hall in 1932. A year later, they debuted the Christmas Spectacular, a show that has enchanted generations and now welcomes over a million guests every holiday season.
The Rockettes 1925 | Image courtesy of the Rockettes
Through wars, social changes, and evolving pop culture, the Rockettes have remained constant. Even appearing on the episode Pebbles’ Birthday Party on The Flintstones back in 1964 as “The Boulderettes”.
The Boulderettes, The Flintstones | Image courtesy of Hanna Barbera / Warner
They were among the first performers to volunteer with the USO during World War II, performing for American troops around the world. In 1978, they helped save Radio City Music Hall from demolition, leading to its landmark status and ensuring the preservation of a New York icon.
Defining an Era of Movement and Empowermen
The rockets 1974 line up | Image courtesy of the Rockettes
Over time, the Rockettes’ signature Precision Dance Technique™, a fusion of jazz, tap, and ballet, has come to represent discipline and unity. Their performances, whether at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Super Bowl XXII, or alongside Mariah Carey, the Backstreet Boys, and Jimmy Fallon, blend timeless elegance with contemporary energy.
Once again the Rockettes will be part of the 99th Thanksgiving Macy’s Day Parade on Nov 27, 2025 | Image courtesy of the Rockettes/Macy's, Inc.
Beyond the glamour lies a deeper story of women redefining entertainment. From the early days of synchronized formation dancing to modern efforts at inclusivity, such as the Dancer Development Program, the Rockettes have evolved to reflect the times while maintaining the rigor and artistry that define them.
A Legacy That Kicks Forward
Today, the Rockettes command an audience that spans generations, with over 5.5 million followers across social media and a renewed presence on streaming specials and major award shows. As they celebrate their centennial year, the company looks ahead with the same boldness that has guided them since 1925.
The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show 2019 | Image courtesy of the Rockettes
A hundred years after their first high kick, the Rockettes continue to symbolize a perfection in motion and the collective power of women moving forward together.
The Christmas Spectacular 2025 is playing now | Image courtesy of the Rockettes
The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
Radio City Music Hall, New York City
Tickets available at rockettes.com/christmas/calendar
Follow them on Instagram: @therockettes