At the time of its opening, in the 1930s, it was considered the largest indoor theater in the world.
Many great stars have performed on its stage including Liza Minnelli, Ella Fitzgerald, Pink Floyd and, more recently, Lady Gaga. The interiors, characterized by bright colors in shades of red and gold, fully reflect the Art Deco style of the building that houses the theater.
After the stock market crash of the 20s, Rockefeller Junior made a bold choice, deciding to build a series of commercial buildings in a depressed area of the city where he owned a considerable plot of land.
In order to finance his great project, Rockefeller found two exceptional members, the Radio Corporation of America and the producer Rothafel: together the three partners founded what has become the most iconic of the city's theaters, the Radio City Music Hall.
At the end of the 90s, the prestigious theater that, over the years, had been visited by more than 300 million people, underwent a massive refurbishment, which brought it back to its former glory.
The theater can host up to 6000 people and the golden curtain which serves to separate the Great Stage is the largest theater curtain in the world.
Going to see one of the shows at Radio City Music Hall is like taking a dip in the 1930s, not only in terms of furnishings, but also for the shows, which often reflect the spirit of its beginning.
Radio City Music Hall has hosted, and still hosts, the concerts of artists who have made the history of music, wonderful musicals, theatrical performances and performances such as the yearly Christmas Spectacular and the performances of the legendary Rockettes.
For a few years it hosted a show by the Cirque du Soleil, specifically made for this theater.
The Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour is a unique and unmissable experience, allowing participants to see what happens behind the scenes of one of the most famous theaters in the world and to understand its secrets.
During the tour a guide tells the story of the theater and talks in depth about its birth and immense success. It is possible to admire the Great Stage up close, and to climb the elevator that leads to the private areas of the theater where artists such as Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson and Madonna had their changing rooms.
It is possible to see the luxury and extravagance of the former private apartments, which today have been converted into exclusive locations for events.
There are also iconic objects and posters on display in the backstage, such as the guitar autographed by Meatloaf in 1999, the billboards of famous shows and the original costumes of the Rockettes dancers.
A short film dedicated to the history of Radio City Music Hall can be watched in a private screening room and viewers can seat on original armchairs of the theater, dated 1932.
The Rockettes
Founded in 1925, this spectacular dance ensemble, composed of 36 elements, has performed regularly at the Radio City Music Hall and for more than half a century, the Rockettes have been a symbol not only of the theater, but also of the city of NY.
The training sessions of these professional dancers are very intense, because their performances require very high precision.
During the Christmas season, the Rockettes perform five shows a day, seven days a week.
A must see!
