Hi All,

Has anyone seen the Christmas Spectacular Show in Radio City Music Hall? Could you please express your opinions? My wife and I are planning a short 2-night trip to NYC during Christmas/New Year and were wondering what's best to see - Chr. Spectacular or a Broadway musical like 42 Street or Millie.

I've seen the Rockettes' Christmas show twice. Radio City Music Hall is a very beautiful building and the staging for the show in spectacular. My husband who didn't really want to go was mesmerized by the engineering. On my second visit we sat closer to the stage but way over to the side. The special effect at the end of the show was ruined because we could see the curtain. Try to get seats closer to the middle so the visitors to Bethleham appear to be coming out of mid-air. You might also enjoy a behind the scenes tour to learn more about the stage elevator and the rest of the building.

If it's a choice between Thoroughly Modern Millie and the Christmas show at Radio City Music, definitely pick the latter. If it's a better show, such as The Producers, well, then you've got a tough decision and will depend on what you're looking for!

We saw the Radio City Show last Thanksgiving. If you haven't seen it, by all means do. We were actually front row which was very good. I thought we'd be too close.

Aside from the show, you are in Rockefeller Center all lit up for the holidays. I would recommend a dinner at one of the restaurants that are skating rink level. Had Thanksgiving dinner there (forget the name) and it was awesome. Overall it is a great experience, not just the show.

Go see it and enjoy.
Duane

I have also been to this show several times. It is totally awesome IMO. Not to be missed. There is no place like NYC around the Holidays. You will enjoy this show and NYC. Have fun.

My husband and I saw the Radio City Christmas Spectactular for the first time two Christmases ago (we splurged on VIP seats). We were enthralled - it really is "spectacular". We enjoyed it so much, we went again last year. We saw "42nd Street" two weekends ago, and that was fabulous as well. If you have to choose between one or the other, I'd definitely recommend Radio City. The Christmas spectacular runs several times a day. You could always see an early show (11:30 AM, for example), have a nice lunch afterward, stroll about Rockefeller Center and to see all the magnificent department store window displays, then see a Broadway musical at night...The VIP seats were terrific, but farther back was nice as well. Do leave plenty of time to get there and get to your seats on time (this is managed very efficiently, but it does take some time). You want to be in your seats (with your 3-D glasses on) when the show begins!

Personally, I would take just about any broadway show over Radio City, but I know that most people just LOVE all that glitz and hype.

Thanks to all who replied. I really value your suggestions. What exactly IS the Christmas Spectacular? What kind of show is that?

I've seen the Christmas Spectacular once. Personally, I think that it is for children but that depends on your personal taste. It is a show with numerous sets with singing and dancing. I also don't tend to like musicals in general. I get very bored and basically can't wait until they are over. I prefer a good drama such as a classic Arthur Miller or even Shakepearean theater. It just depends on personal taste.

Thanks.

I will be in NYC the weekend before Christmas with my two kids. I would love to take them to the Christmas Show. I hear that you need tickets way in advance, does any one know where to get them in advance, and how far in advance are they sold? Thanks

Thought the Christmas Spectacular was wonderful....don't miss the Rockettes.
Will put you in the holiday spirit...We always stay at the NY Hilton 2 blocks away. My husband and I did it last year.

Definately would recommend the Christmas spectular.

To say its "numerous sets with singing and dancing" is like saying Yankee Stadium is a big building with a lot of seats.

The Rockettes add a special flair and flavor to this show, consisting of original routines, some of which are repated each year. It is special and fun for all ages.

If you prefer drama or a something with a story line than you should consider an alternative, otherwise, buy your tickets now and have a great time!

Jackie, you can already buy tickets through www.ticketmaster.com

I guess I'll be the dissenter in this group. Don't go to the Christmas Spectacular! The one time I saw the show, I was really looking forward to it but was disappointed. It was pre-recorded and overdone, and the cheese factor was huge. If you want quality Christmas entertainment that will put you in the spirit, see the Nutcracker instead - it's a classic!

Greg,
I bought our tickets to the Christmas spectacular last week through Ticketmaster.com. The prices are some of the best and we are front and center in the orchestra section. My travel agent couldn't find good seats like I wanted, so I went on the internet and found them myself. Great seats are still available!