Utah Dancers Shine in Rockettes’ NYC Christmas Spectacular
Two talented dancers from Utah have achieved their dream of performing in the iconic Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular in New York City. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the beloved dance troupe, which is renowned for its high kicks and precision.
Utah Dancers Join the Rockettes
Isabelle Harris and Emry Wride were selected from thousands of hopefuls worldwide. The competitive audition process typically sees around 1,000 women vying for just 80 spots in the Rockette cast. Both dancers expressed their disbelief and excitement at being part of this storied legacy.
Isabelle Harris: A Dream Realized
Isabelle Harris, hailing from Heber Valley, grew up idolizing the Rockettes. Watching their performances in events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade inspired her to pursue a career in dance. After moving to New York City post-high school, she underwent intensive training in precision dance and successfully auditioned for the Rockettes on her first attempt.
Emry Wride: Finding Her Place
Emry Wride initially majored in dance at Brigham Young University, where she performed with the Cougarettes. She attended an open call for the Rockettes, despite being relatively unfamiliar with the organization. The audition atmosphere was electric, filled with energy from women across the country and even abroad who shared the same dream.
The Rigorous Journey Ahead
After being selected, both Harris and Wride entered a demanding six-week training program. This preparation is essential for the Rockettes, as they perform over 100 shows during the holiday season. On average, dancers may perform up to 17 shows each week, highlighting the rigorous nature of their roles.
Embracing Tradition and Innovation
- Legacy: The Rockettes’ performance “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” has been a staple since 1933.
- Contribution: Both dancers feel a strong connection to the history they are now a part of.
- Innovation: Advances in choreography and technology enhance the audience experience annually.
Harris noted how performing in such an iconic setting fosters a sense of unity among the dancers. This collaboration empowers them to spread Christmas joy to audiences worldwide. Wride echoed similar sentiments about the surreal experience of carrying on such a rich tradition.
Words of Encouragement
Both dancers encourage aspiring performers to pursue their dreams relentlessly. The journey may be challenging, but they believe that showing up and giving it your all is crucial. “You never know what could happen if you show up and try your best,” emphasized Wride.
The experience of being a Rockette combines hard work with the fulfillment of personal aspirations, solidifying the legacy of the Radio City Rockettes for generations to come. The 2025 Christmas Spectacular promises to be a memorable celebration, showcasing the remarkable talent of its dancers.
