SALT LAKE CITY — Two talented dancers from Utah are living their dreams in New York City. They are now part of the Radio City Rockettes, a legendary dance group celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
The Rockettes are famous for their high kicks and precision. Their annual Christmas Spectacular draws over a million attendees. Each year, only about 80 dancers make the cut from thousands of hopefuls around the world. This year, two lucky Utah women secured a spot in this iconic performance.
Isabelle Harris, from Heber Valley, describes the experience as surreal. “Every day, I walk into Radio City and can’t believe this is my reality,” she says. Harris grew up inspired by the Rockettes, especially watching their performances during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. After high school, she moved to New York to study the unique dance style that the Rockettes are known for. After three years of hard work, she auditioned and joined right away.
Emry Wride, from Pleasant Grove, also pursued dance at BYU, where she performed with the Cougarettes. She joined the audition for the Rockettes on a whim, despite knowing little about them. “The energy in Radio City is unforgettable,” Wride recalls, describing the throng of over a thousand dancers auditioning for just a handful of spots.
Wride got into a special program with the Rockettes, which taught her the ins and outs of their performance style. “Once I saw how they worked together, I knew I had to be a part of this,” she says.
The rigorous training for the Rockettes includes six weeks of intensive rehearsals, preparing for over 100 performances during a short holiday season. As Wride points out, being a Rockette means treating dance seriously: “We are athletes, and we need to stay fit.”
Joining such a storied group has been an honor for both dancers. “Onstage, under the lights, it feels bigger than just me,” Harris reflects. They both find joy in being part of a sisterhood that celebrates the legacy of the Rockettes, especially during this landmark 100th year.
Wride vividly remembers her first turn in “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” a number that’s been performed since 1933. The connection to history is palpable. “Every Rockette before me has done this. It hit me at that moment—I’m part of something special,” she shares.
The Rockettes blend tradition with innovation. They constantly introduce new technology and athletic movements to improve the show each year. Recent statistics indicate an increase in audience engagement through enhanced visual effects, which add to the overall experience.
It can be daunting to chase your dreams, but both dancers encourage others to take the leap. Wride reminds aspiring performers, “You never know what could happen if you just show up and give it your best shot.” Harris adds, “Why not you? Someone will be chosen; it could be you.”
These two women are not just dancers; they are part of a historical legacy, spreading joy and inspiration with every performance.
For more insights into the Rockettes, visit MSG Entertainment.
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