About the Event:

Join ADSNY for this special online and recorded event that chronicles the incredible true story of how one dancer in 1978 motivated her colleagues and friends to save Radio City Music Hall from imminent demolition. Using media clips from the era, Rosemary Novellino-Mearns––the 1970s dance captain of Radio City Music Hall’s Ballet Company––will tell the amazing David and Goliath story of how she led the fight that saved the Showplace of the Nation.

In the mid-1970s, rumors of questionable behind-the-scenes changes alarmed hundreds of employees, but no one was prepared for the official announcement that the famed Radio City Music Hall was slated to close that April and be demolished shortly thereafter.

Join us to hear the riveting tale of how Rosemary refused to let this happen and quickly organized “The Showpeople’s Committee to Save Radio City Music Hall.” We'll see how she motivated her fellow workers, friends, tens of thousands of Radio City fans around the world, cultural leaders, and politicians to support the cause. She became a champion in the use of local and national media to garner coverage, and we'll see clips of this effort throughout the presentation. As a result of these efforts, the Art Deco palace was declared a National Historic Landmark, saving not only the building, but the jobs and livelihoods of Music Hall employees, who have continued to entertain millions since that fateful year.

This fact-filled, sometimes emotionally charged, and often humorous personal account of that preservation campaign will give us a backstage glimpse into the drama that unfolded.

This unique online illustrated talk is sure to fill quickly. Claim your spot today!

Even though this event is online, it will include a live PowerPoint––with wonderful images that you will be able to see directly on your computer screen, tablet, or mobile device––as well as a Q&A session with participants. 

Can't join us at the time of the live event? No problem! Those who register will receive a recording of the entire program a few days after the live presentation. When you sign up for the program you have the opportunity to watch, or rewatch, the recording at a time more convenient for your schedule.

About the Speaker:

Rosemary Novellino-Mearns was a modest but determined young dancer from Glen Rock, New Jersey. She joined the Radio City Music Hall Ballet Company in 1966 and danced with the group for twelve years––eventually becoming its Dance Captain and Assistant to the legendary choreographer Peter Gennaro. She is the author of Saving Radio City Music Hall: A Dancer’s True Story.

Registration:

How to Register for ADSNY's Web-based programs:

• Click the gold  Register  button located to the left of the "About the Program" section
  
• Enter the requested information in the registration form and follow the instructions to pay online and complete your registration
  
• In a few moments, you will receive an email confirmation of your registration
  
• You will receive an email with the link and password to join your Zoom event the day of the program

If your email address disappears from the text box when you are trying to register for this program, please make sure that cookies and cross-site tracking are enabled in your web browser or try using a different web browser. If you need further assistance registering for this event, or are experiencing a different issue, please email Event@ArtDeco.org, let us know which events you would like to register for, and we will send you an invoice that can be easily completed without going through the ArtDeco.org website.

All ticket sales are final. Sorry, there are no refunds or exchanges. 

ADSNY's online events may be photographed or recorded.

By attending the live event, you consent to the use of your image, voice, comments, and/or questions by ADSNY for all purposes.