Day 2: Rox Callbacks

Callbacks for the 2014 Radio City Christmas Spectacular were held this morning!

We learned a very detailed jazz combo yesterday and began with another tricky one today. This job is no joke. It's not enough to be a great dancer. You must also to be a smart dancer and this piece tested us mentally as well as physically. 

From the Rockettes' Facebook Page

A cut was made after jazz. We went on to do the tap dance from yesterday as well as a new combo. A few Rockettes showed up today to audition to keep their jobs so we reviewed the previous day's jazz dance before performing in groups. 

From the Rockettes' Facebook Page 

Finally, we did what the Rockettes are famous for... kicks!

From the Rockettes' Instagram

At the end of the audition, the choreographer thanked us for coming and sent us into another room to have our pictures and measurements taken. I've made it to the end several times before, but I always have tears in my eyes. 

We filled out paperwork and even had to put how we would like our names to appear in the program. However, this does not mean we have the job (yet!) Calls with contract offers are supposed to go out in July. 

Please keep your fingers crossed for me!

Day 1: Rox Audition

I woke up at 5am and followed my usual Rox audition routine of coffee, pb&j bagel and warming up. I nailed my french twist on the first attempt which never happens and I also slept through the night. Usually my nerves keep me up thinking, but I just felt so relaxed and happy to be able to chase after my dream again. 

I was in the second group as per usual. For the first cut, we faced away from the mirror (omg scary!) It was a good idea though, because if we book the job we obviously won’t be able to check ourselves in the mirror once rehearsals end. I kicked and turned for my life and it soon came time to announce the numbers that would stay. I was #100 and when they called #101 my heart stopped. I thought it was all over. Then they called #100 after what seemed like an eternity. The numbers were just out of order! I started to tear up since this has been my dream for so long and all I want is a chance to really dance and prove myself. 

My guardian angels were definitely watching over me for this one…and the next 3 cuts! After kicks/turns, jazz, more jazz, and tap, I was invited back to Day 2 of the audition. 

If you don’t already know, I left a great 9 to 5 job in a wonderful office with amazing people and benefits in order to really focus on the pursuit of my dream again. I was just not ready to give up. In fact, I never want to give up. I intend to achieve this goal. I am thrilled to be going tomorrow. I plan to keep an open mind since they could throw tons of new routines at us in addition to the ones I am currently reviewing. In the words of one of my best dancer friends, "I'm just happy to be here."  

From the Rockettes' Instagram. I am in the red leo in the back/right. 

Internal Dialogue of a Rockette Hopeful

Here are some thoughts that typically enter my mind on the morning of the annual Radio City Rockette audition. Do you have similar internal conversations with yourself? Ha!

1. COFFEE. I'm so excited!!
2. Where is my heating pad? Time to do some light stretches. Do I have everything? Headshot/resume? Shoes? Lipstick? Water? 
3. I have to stick to my usual Rockette audition tradition of a pb&j bagel on the way to Radio City. 
4. What time should I get in line? Should I be in the first group with all of the equity peeps? I feel on top of my game and ready to audition. Do I go in the second group like I usually do because of my strange theories? Won’t they be watching former Rockettes more than me if I go in the first group since I’m sure priority lies with them as it should? I’m thinking second group. I’ve always shined in the second. Second it is!
5. There are some beautiful french twists in this line. You really couldn’t perfect one in the last 6 years? 
6. Why did I just spend $235 on La Duca’s that I can’t even wear today? They are impossible to break in. What kind of rubber are they using now?? I guess I’m wearing my old ones. I hope it’s not too slippery!
7. Does my body look good enough? I’ve worked my butt off (literally). Yes, I look great and I’m rocking this red leo, red lip and french twist. 
8. Okay… I need to find a spot in this insanely packed holding room to warm up and stretch it out. I have to be close to the door though. 
9. I don’t mean to be rude friends, but please let me get in the zone. I can’t wait to talk later!
10. Race to the front and stand near the choreographer. Focus. 
11. SQUEEZE YOUR CROTCH!!!!!!!!! Engage your core. Don’t forget to breathe! 
12. Don’t watch any of the other girls. Don't compare while you're waiting to dance. You know what you’re doing. Keep your eyes on the ground.  
13. SMILE and enjoy yourself. This is what you love to do more than anything in the world. You’ve wanted to be a Rockette since you first saw them at age 12. You’ve done 6 summer intensives and auditioned for this job so many times that you don’t even remember the exact number. Or you’re just embarrassed to admit it’s nearing the double digits… Show them that you want it and are extremely capable.