19-03-2025
The iconic Rockettes turn 100
NEW YORK, N.Y. (WSAV) — When you turn 100, you celebrate all year long. That is the plan for the iconic Rockettes.
Julie Branam, Resident Director Choreographer, Radio City Music Hall, says, 'There's no place else where, really, the Rockettes fit better than at Radio City Music Hall, where we have a 70-foot-wide proscenium that fits all the Rockettes.'
New Jersey native Danelle Mogan is celebrating her own Rockette milestone with her 20th season. 'Whether it's your first year or your 28th year, there's something so special about being a Radio City Rockette, and I think that's why we sort of stick around so long.'
For the Sullivan twins, also from New Jersey, who have childhood memories of seeing the high kickers perform in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. 'As identical twins, we're like, wow, that's something that we could do as it's been in, like our DNA and our genes, to dance together. We have always been in sync.' Their years of training in jazz, tap and ballet paid off. 'Being from New Jersey, New York has always been in our backyard, so our parents come to a lot of shows.'
The saying goes, 'Once a Rockette, always a Rockette.' So to celebrate the 100th anniversary, the dance company is inviting all former Rockettes to share their story. Julie Branam says it's a way to keep the legacy going. 'We'll keep archiving all of that information. It's like a living, breathing tribute to everyone who has been a Rockette.'
A century of high kicks and timeless charm. Courtney Sullivan says, ''It's just such an honor to be a part of this line of women and to celebrate those who came before us.'
Fun fact: The Rockettes may be synonymous with New York City, but did you know they actually originated in St. Louis?Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
