December 17, 2021
We regret to announce that the four shows scheduled for today, Friday, December 17 have been canceled due to breakthrough COVID-19 cases in the production.
The official Rockettes’ statement announcing today’s cancellation of the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular show in New York City.
- The Rockettes originated from a dance troupe in the 1920s that prioritized “precision and ultimate uniformity.” The troupe’s performance on Broadway in 1925 set the stage for the official “Radio City Rockettes” in 1932 – and the beginning of their annual Christmas show, Christmas Spectacular, one year later.
- During their 90-minute holiday show, the fastest costume change takes just 78 seconds. The dancers even have special microphones in the heels of their shoes so the audience can hear their dance steps!
- The Rockettes do their own hair and make-up (preferred lipstick is MAC Red/Russian Red), and with several performances every day during the holidays, the Rockettes’ production team is constantly doing laundry – sometimes up to 20 hours a day!
Big Picture: The Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular was canceled last year due to the pandemic; unfortunately, today their shows have been canceled due to COVID-19 cases among the crew. The Rockettes “will make announcements about future shows as soon as possible,” and said all tickets for canceled shows will be refunded. Positivity rates for COVID-19 tests have doubled in a matter of days in New York City, leading to the temporary closure of some popular Broadway shows and restaurants.
25 Things You Didn’t Know About the Christmas Spectacular (and the Rockettes!)
by Jenna Lee,
