NYC Love: Touring Radio City Music Hall

By Guest Writer Julie Terrone
If you are in New York City and you love theaters and history, then taking a tour of Radio City Music Hall should be on your list of things to do. This incredible building is the home of the largest indoor theater in the world with its stage starting at 50^th street and spanning 144 feet across to 51^st street.

The coolest part is hearing the un-microphoned conversation of people standing on the stage while we were seated in the last row of the third mezzanine, 190 feet away. Now that’s great acoustics!

Originally known for showing movies in 1932, this venue had a tremendous renovation in 1999 and now has the ability to show 3D films on one of the largest projection screens measuring 35 feet by 70 feet, as well as accommodate both 35mm and 70 mm films. The world-famous Rockettes have performed new shows each year for an 8 week period since 1933. Performers such as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys and many others have graced this stage. But Radio City Music Hall is not just about theater and music. Many sporting events such as the NFL draft, WNBA all-star game, New York Liberty home games, boxing matches and an ice rink built for “Disney on Ice” have taken place in this building too.

Hydraulic Stage System

The Radio City Stage Door Tour is a one-hour behind the scenes walking tour. Guests will be able to hear about what Samuel Lionel (Roxy) Rothafel was inspired by when he created the design of this theater, and learn about the stage hydraulic system that inspired the U.S. Navy to incorporate in their construction of aircraft carriers during WWII. Along with many interesting facts, you will hear stories from an enthusiastic and expertly trained tour guide and walk through the private Roxy suite.

Lastly you will meet one of the world-famous Radio City Rockettes and have photo opportunities.