Eileen Grace (left), director, choreographer and Rockettes dancer, will lead the UA Rockette Summer Intensive.

Dancers ages 14 and up will spend a week learning the Rockettes' world famous precision dance technique.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - New York’s Radio City Entertainment is offering a comprehensive summer training program in conjunction with The University of Alabama. The Rockette Summer Intensive will be held June 1-7, 2003. It is the second year for this program that is designed to allow young dancers to connect with the professional dance world, as well as give students the opportunity to discover and develop their dance potential.

“These are exactly the types of programs we have been looking for,” said Edie Barnes, professor of theatre and dance and director of dance in the College of Arts and Sciences at UA. “Being able to expose these girls to what may be available to them down the road through professional dance programs is a priceless opportunity.”

Radio City Rockettes will teach their world famous precision dance technique. This style includes Jazz, Tap, Musical Theater, Post Modern, Lyrical, Latin and the legendary Kick Line. The curriculum will focus on original choreography and formations from the Rockette repertoire -- plus specialty classes with UA faculty -- and will culminate in a performance opportunity.

After a week of classes, the participants will showcase their talents on Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m. in the Gallaway Theatre. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door from 10 a.m. until curtain.

The Rockette Summer Intensive is for intermediate/advanced dancers ages 14 and up with at least five years of continuous training in ballet, tap and jazz. Classes and rehearsals will be offered every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with group education seminars in the evening. Classes will be offered at ability levels following an initial placement audition. Students should be able to execute clean double pirouettes, double and triple time steps and have the ability to perform multiple “jump kicks” at eye level.

Dance classes will be held in the dance studios and athletic facilities located on campus -- including Clark Hall dance studio, and the Gallaway Theatre stage.

After the success UA had with last year’s program, the Rockettes have expanded this spectacular program to two other venues later this summer, the University of Texas at Austin and California State University, Long Beach. Interested students were required to register by March 1, 2003. The program was publicized through advertisements in popular dance magazines.

Barnes said this year’s class of 47 will have more Alabama students in it, which she said is a definite plus for the state. Barnes has espoused that it’s because of less exposure to professional dance companies, not a lack of talent, which causes fewer dancers from the South to pursue professional dance careers.

The Rockettes have thrilled millions with their dance technique throughout their 76 years. They have been a legendary force in entertainment, with a rich history of skill and dedication to their craft that have inspired young dancers nationwide.