The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1529376
graduate with a Bachelor's Degree in Dance from Hofstra University and becoming proficient in the precision dance style performed by the Rockettes through different dance auditions in New York City, Tubridy decided to take the leap and audition for the Radio City Rockettes. To become a Rockette, auditioners must be eighteen years of age and proficient in tap, ballet, and jazz. e audition process consists of about 500 dancers auditioning and Tubridy recalls the line being wrapped around the building at her first audition and being tempted to leave, but with a little pep talk from her mom, she decided to stay and audition, ultimately launching her career as a Rockette. e two-day audition process taught choreography from the actual show, intricate combinations, and lots of kicking. In 2006 Tara Tubridy made the team of eighty dancers with her talent and dedication. Each Rockette must audition each year in order to be on the team. Tara Tubridy discussed how one of the most outstanding parts of being a Rockette is how physically demanding it is and the athleticism necessary to rehearse and perform throughout the holiday season. Tubridy explained the rigorous rehearsal routine endured by Rockettes to get them prepared to perform eight numbers, multiple times a day. e Rockettes consist of two teams of thirty-six dancers, with six swings off stage, each performing six days a week with two to four performances a day, as well as special events like Macy's anksgiving Day Parade. Six to eight weeks before the show opens up, the dancers rehearse for six hours a day, six days a week. Rehearsals consist of learning and working on each routine, learning stage elements, and costume fittings before going through dress rehearsal runs of the show. Currently residing in Oceanside, Long Island, Tubridy usually starts her rehearsal days by commuting to the rehearsal space and getting there early to get taped at the athletic training program and warm-up before the dancers begin T a r a T u b r i d y , Ro c k e t t e VUE ON | RADIO CITY ROCKETTES 68 VUENJ.COM