In celebration of Black History Month, Rockette Tamia shares how the support she received growing up in the arts led to living out her dreams at Radio City Music Hall.
I grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland, and began dancing at six years old. What started as a random hip hop class with a friend quickly turned into something much more – I fell in love with dancing. From there, I signed up for classes in every dance style my studio offered: tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, modern, contemporary, and ballet. Eventually, I joined the competition team, and it was there that I realized the stage was truly where I belonged. I was fortunate to grow up in a family that valued and supported the arts. My uncle saw potential in me early on and took me under his wing, encouraging me to become the best version of myself. I wouldn’t be who I am today without his ongoing support. When it came time to apply for colleges, I knew two things for certain: I wanted to dance, and I wanted to do it in New York City. After four years studying at Fordham University in their program in partnership with The Ailey School, I graduated with a BFA in dance.
I had always seen the Rockettes perform on television during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Like so many others, it was a tradition in my family to cook while the parade played in the background, and the Rockettes were always my favorite part. I was 18 years old the first time I saw them perform live, and I was in awe. Watching 36 beautiful, strong women dancing with such precision was captivating. Their movementlooked effortless and I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. It wasn’t until college, when Rockettes dance captain Danelle came to The Ailey School to teach a workshop, that I felt truly inspired to audition. Danelle also graduated from Fordham/Ailey and she encouraged me to pursue auditioning. Seeing someone who looked like me and shared a similar background gave me the confidence to pursue this dream and believe that I too belonged on that line.
I first encountered the Rockettes Precision Dance Technique® in 2018, when my best friend and I attended the Rockettes Summer Intensive – a program that has since evolved into Rockettes Conservatory and Rockettes Preparatory. The precision technique was entirely new to me, but I’ve never shied away from a challenge. We worked closely with Rockettes to learn choreography inspired by the Christmas Spectacularand understand the discipline behind the style. In 2022, I auditioned for the Rockettes for the first time. I was cut after the second day of auditions, but I didn’t let that discourage me. In 2024, I auditioned again, made it to the third day of callbacks, and was invited to attend Rockettes Fundamentals, a three-day training workshop held at Radio City Music Hall. Later on, I was invited to attend Rockettes Conservatory, a week-long intensive also held at Radio City at no cost to the participating dancers. Conservatory pushed me both physically and mentally, deepening my precision technique while demanding a new level of stamina and control. Coming from a more modern and contemporary background, I was not used to moving my body with such sharpness and uniformity. Every day required me to re-train my instincts, refine my musicality, and trust my ability to adapt. It was challenging, but it affirmed how badly I wanted to be a Rockette. Shortly after, I received the phone call offering me a spot on the line.
Becoming a Rockette was a dream. During my first season, I was in awe simply standing alongside women I had grown up watching on television. It was a rigorous process, but I was supported every step of the way by the other Rockettes. They felt like my older sisters, answering any questions I had about the choreography, sharing show tips, and offering constant encouragement. My second season, which marked the Rockettes 100th anniversary, was an especially meaningful moment in my career. Not only did I meet and perform for generations of Legacy Rockettes who were on the line before me, but I also gained a deeper understanding of what true sisterhood meant within this organization. I grew out of my shell, became more confident in the Rockettes Precision Dance Technique®, and felt more grounded in my place on the line. As a Rockette, I learned just how strong I am – physically, mentally, and artistically. I gained confidence not only as a dancer, but also as a person, and I formed lifelong friendships that I will carry with me forever.
Growing up in a predominantly white community, I rarely had the opportunity to learn from or see dancers who looked like me. Because of that, I understand how powerful representation can be. As a Black Rockette, I feel a responsibility and privilege to show young Black dancers that they belong in this industry and deserve to see themselves reflected on iconic stages like the Great Stage at Radio City Music Hall. Working with Rockette hopefuls reminds me of why visibility matters. I feel honored when young dancers ask for photos or share that I’ve inspired them. Looking ahead, I’m excited to see the Rockettes line continue to evolve with dancers from all backgrounds who bring their own stories, strength, and individuality to this sisterhood. I’m grateful to be part of a legacy that continues to grow, and where every dancer watching can believe there’s a place for them on the stage.
