Concert Review: The Rockettes (Unpublished)

(The following Rockettes concert review was never published so I present it here):

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular staring the Rockettes
Air Canada Centre
Monday, November 16, 2009, 7:30pm

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular staring the Rockettes imported from the bustling streets of New York City arrived in Toronto last night for the first of 5 dazzling shows.

The Spectacular actually lives up to its name. More than just the 18 Radio City Rockettes forming a can-can kick line the show’s other elements include Santa, 16 ensemble sings and dancers and an additional 8 singers plus flying snow, one giant disco ball and lastly a large LED screen that sets the scene for each stage of the extravaganza.

Through the magic of technology and imagination the audience are transported to a Winter Wonderland, Bethlehem, the North Pole and of course New York City. In a scene titled New York at Christmas the Rockettes kick and shimmy their way atop a nearly full size double decker Big Apple tour bus as it heads out on 5th Avenue. The scene concluded to resounding applause with the Rockettes trademark precision kicking in Times Square.

In a world of rap music videos the precision dancing is refreshing. The removal of ego for the greater cause shines in hallmark moments such as Time Square, a delightful tap dance sequence of the 12 Days of Christmas and of course the infamous Parade of Wooden Soldiers.

Somewhere along the way the Christmas spirit and sense of play gets lost in all the growing up and holiday to do list responsibilities. Through some whimsy and wonder plus 18 Rockettes—who will go through 1, 200 pair of tights before this tour is over—The Christmas Spectacular is vibrant return to the Christmas morning child in all of us.

As Santa asked: “Do you feel the magic?” While older youths will struggle to be completely engaged by the show seniors and small children remain enraptured. Radio City takes their responsibilities seriously as they attempt to offer families a fulfilling Christmas memory. Though it’s still November the stage show is infectious in its earnestness and celebration of all things Christmas. Santa told us early on: “it’s a return to the traditions we so love.”

Taking the opportunity to extend an invitation to my parents we went as a family. My Mom found the show: “incredible and lovely.” While my Dad’s greatest compliment was that he did not fall asleep once. A better review you will be hard to find.

-28-


Also published on Medium.

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