One Last Look at the Rockettes and RCMH
Circa 1980
This following article was published in the Westfield Republican/Ripley Review in March 1980 by a writer named Barbara Salthouse for Info, a World of $ense which was a consumer news center.
There was a time when Radio City Music Hall vied with the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty as one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City. Between 1932 and 1979, 240 million visitors viewed the spectacles produced at RCMH. No group of precision dancers on earth ever rivaled the popularity of the Rockettes. No movie house ever equaled its size.
Sadly, RCMH fell on hard times in the 1970s when its crowds dwindled. In 1975, it appeared that this famed institution of popular entertainment might close its doors, permanently.
The New York State Urban Development Committee realized the historical and cultural value of the hall made an all-out effort to help Radio City get back on its feet. Early in 1979, a new corporation was formed to run it. The new Radio City Music Hall Productions, Inc. quickly set out to establish RCMH as an exciting family entertainment center.
First priority was the complete restoration of the public areas and to return the hall to the magnificent art deco splendor it displayed on its opening night.
During May of 1979, dedicated workmen completed the monumental renovation. Craftsmen installed carpet and wallpaper faithful to the original designs. Conservators restored three huge murals. The foyer's glittering gold leaf ceiling was cleaned, balustrades were painted and 6,000 seats were repaired. In addition, an ambitious new sound system was installed.
The restorations were well worth the costs and effort. Experts agree that RCMH contains the most perfectly equipped stage in the world. No innovation of modern stagecraft has been omitted. Mechanisms for special effects include rain and steam curtains, a huge circular turntable and three stage elevators.
In addition, the theate also possesses the world's largest pipe organ. Eight separate rooms house its vast number of pipes, ranging in size from 6 inches to 32 feet tall. Various instruments attached to the organ include tom-toms, cymbals, chimes, marimbas, drums and even a glockenspiel.
On May 31, 1979 RCMH opened with a totally live full-length extravaganza, A New York Summer, to begin its new life as New York's entertainment center. The show featured a cast of over 100, more than 1,000 costumes and, of course, the world-famous Rockettes!
The daily 90 minute live shows, always including an appearance by the Rockettes, remains one of the best entertainment bargains in New York City.
Since this article was written you can now sign up and receive the latest Rockette news, events, offers and much more online. The box office numbers are as follows: 212-465-6225 or 888-684-3582.
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