This past weekend I went with my daughter and some of Excel in Motion’s staff to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Not only was the show amazing, but one of our staff members, Lauren DiPietro, was performing in the ensemble.
If you’re in New York, this is a must-see show! It’s only 90 minutes with no intermission so the time really flies by and is perfect for kids to attend. If you want something from the concession stand or souvenirs, grab it early and it’s easier to get it on a higher floor (not the lobby).
I was sad to see you now have to pay for a program, but if you know a cast member, you can find their name on the cast board in the lobby.
It’s definitely a magical experience and when I got home I looked up the history of the show to inform myself a little more. Here’s some fun facts I learned:
- Long-Running Tradition: The show debuted in 1933, making it a nearly 90-year holiday tradition. It has become one of the most iconic Christmas performances in the world.
- The Living Nativity: The Living Nativity scene has been a part of the show since its inception and features real camels, donkeys, and sheep on stage. (Sometimes they poop onstage)
- Thousands of Kicks: Each Rockettes dancer performs roughly 300 high kicks during every 90-minute performance, which totals thousands of kicks over the course of the season.
- Impressive Cast: There are over 140 performers involved in the production, including the Rockettes, singers, actors, and live animals.
- The Nutcracker: The Rockettes perform a toy soldier routine in the show, which has been a fan favorite since 1933. The precision and control required make it one of the most challenging routines.
- Millions of Lights: Radio City Music Hall is illuminated with over one million lights during the Christmas Spectacular, creating a dazzling holiday atmosphere.
- Costume Count: The show features more than 1,100 costumes and 100 pairs of custom-made Rockettes shoes, which are hand-painted to match their outfits.
- Technology Meets Tradition: The production incorporates advanced technology, including digital projections, LED screens, and drones, to bring new life to its timeless routines.
- Audience Reach: Each year, more than one million people attend the show, making it one of the highest-attended theatrical productions in the United States.
- Constant Evolution: While many classic numbers like “The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” remain unchanged, new scenes and modern elements are added regularly to keep the show fresh and exciting for audiences.