Newtown City Lifestyle caught up with Yardley resident Taylor Shimko as she was preparing for upcoming performances for the "Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes" in New York.
How did you get started in dance?
When I was little, I'd go to work with my dad on Saturdays, which happened to be next to a dance studio. I was only three, and my dad was looking for a way to keep me busy, so my parents enrolled me in classes at The Dance Academy in Holland, Pennsylvania, where I spent my entire childhood training.
When/how did you learn who/what the Rockettes were?
When I was 10 years old, my mom and I took a trip to NYC with my dance teacher to see the "Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes." I was enamored by the beauty and effortlessness of the Rockettes as they took the stage, and specifically remember being wowed by the soldier fall at the end of “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.” I told my dance teacher I wanted to do that one day, and she said she could see me up there as well.
How did your local dance classes prepare you for a future Rockette audition/career?
At The Dance Academy, I trained in many styles with a heavy focus on ballet, tap and jazz. I grew up participating in dance competitions around the country, which helped me to build confidence and really learn to perform to the best of my ability every time I stepped on stage. By high school, I was spending more time at my studio than I was at home!
When did you decide you wanted to try to become a Rockette?
I knew I wanted to pursue dance professionally, but I had to wait until my senior year of high school to audition once I could meet the Rockettes age requirement of 18.
What's the audition process for the Rockettes like?
The audition takes place at Radio City Music Hall over a few days. Rockette-hopefuls learn multiple combos, perform for the director and associate choreographers, and go through a series of cuts and callbacks. Each year, hundreds of dancers from around the world audition to become Rockettes, and I was lucky enough to get the job on my first try.
How did you react when you found out you were selected?
When I got the call, I was at home with my parents and brother getting ready for my high school graduation party, and it also happened to be Father’s Day. I remember being in absolute shock, and was so excited to be able to share the news with my friends and family at my party. It was a day I'll never forget. I didn't know then just how much this job would change my life.
What was your preparation for the first show/first year on stage?
I was definitely overwhelmed my first year, but I took a lot of notes during the rehearsal process so I could feel more comfortable as time went on. As a young dancer in my first professional dance job, I was inspired by other dancers in the room. This is my 13th year with the Rockettes, and I still get the first-day jitters! I'm still so inspired by the incredible group of women that fill the rehearsal room each year.
How long is the general annual preparation for the Christmas shows?
Each year, the Rockettes spend about six weeks rehearsing for the show. We learn the choreography, put it in formation on stage and then add technical elements. By our first dress rehearsal, we're a well-oiled machine and ready to perform for the approximately one million fans who see us each year at Radio City Music Hall!
How do you like the mix of living in Yardley and performing in New York City?
I love having the best of both worlds: a city life and a suburban life. I commute to NYC six days a week during the season, and love being able to come back to the suburbs and the feeling of home.
What is your proudest moment of being a Rockette?
As a Radio City Rockette, I've had the opportunity to take part of so many appearances and special events I never could’ve imagined. It's so hard to pick just one, but I think dancing on “Saturday Night Live” with Jennifer Lopez was the coolest and most memorable experience I’ve had as a Rockette.
To whom do you attribute your dance success?
Two individuals from my dance studio shaped my dance career: Donnajean Kline and BJ Byrne. These two constantly pushed me to pursue my dreams and instilled an incredible work ethic within me. I'm truly so grateful for the life lessons they taught me through dance and the constant support they have offered me.
What advice can you give to a young dancer who may want to dance professionally?
Don’t put yourself in a box. Being a smart, versatile dancer is key. Train in as many styles as possible and always keep your dream at the forefront. Enjoy the process; there's always something to learn along the way. And don’t forget that every day we get to dance is truly a gift.
Tickets and Schedule: Rockettes.com/Christmas