strickland:The public auditions were held in April, and there was a three-day audition process. I completed all three days and was then invited to Conservatory Week, a week-long program of training with the Rockets and Ailey School. [an educational institution that partners with the Rockettes on dancer development programs]. Dance Theater of Harlem will also be coming and teaching classes, so we’ll be exposed to a variety of dance styles throughout the week. and after that There was another invitation-only audition in August, which I also attended. [Basically,] It took me all summer to get here.
self:Did you get the offer the first time you auditioned, or did you have to audition several times before you got it?
strickland:I auditioned twice, so this was my second audition. It has always been my dream to become a rocket. And I knew it was possible if I kept working towards it. Plus, I love Christmas in New York, so I wanted to be a part of a Christmas tradition that is iconic to so many. And that kept me motivated to keep going. Because I knew it would happen someday.
self:What did you think when you received the notification that you would be appearing on this year’s show?
strickland:When I received the phone call, I was speechless. This is what I thought. Oh, yes, I would love to do that. ”And I immediately called my mom. She started crying, and I remember just being like, “Oh, I did it!” All that effort paid off and we were able to accomplish something. ” When I stood on stage for the first time, I thought, “Wow.” It felt like a dream come true, and I burst into tears as I wore the reindeer costume.
hawkins: Yes, receiving a phone call is so magical. I remember being trembling. My husband and I were standing in the drive-thru line at a coffee shop. He’s being handed a coffee through the window and I’m there freaking out!
Hawes: And actually, we have another audition. [veteran] Team Rocket. It’s a one day process for us. No returns are guaranteed so you can stay on top of your game. Over the years, I have become more confident in participating.
