A woman filming the Radio City Rockettes dance company in New York City was enjoying their outdoor performance when suddenly she realized she was watching far more special than she expected.
Mickey, username mickmicknyc on TikTok, shared a video that drew more than 10.4 million views of the Rockettes performing at a rehearsal for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
At first glance, it appeared to be a typical performance, but when Mickey looked closer, she noticed that one of the dancers did not have a left hand.
“I didn’t notice it at first, she just blended in as another incredible Rockette at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade rehearsals,” Mickey explained in the caption of her video. “But so many of you pointed it out in the comments, and I realized I was watching something truly special.”
Sydney Mesher: Dancer and Activist
The dancer’s name is Sydney Mesher, a Portland, Oregon native who was born without her left hand. As an activist, Mesher has given public speeches about her disability, noting on her website that “she loves connecting with her limb different community, and meeting friends with differences alike.”
Mesher joined the Rockettes in 2019, becoming the first member of the dance company with a visible disability.
“Seeing her perform with such talent, confidence and grace on one of NYC’s most iconic stages filled my heart,” Mickey wrote.
The Rockettes are best known for their high-kicking precision choreography and dazzling performances at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Founded in 1925 in St. Louis and brought to Manhattan in 1932, the Rockettes quickly became a fixture of the city’s entertainment scene, especially through their annual appearance in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
The performances blend exacting discipline and glittering costumes with classical dance, Broadway showmanship and pop culture.
The Rockettes have become a symbol of New York itself, and for many Americans, especially during the holidays, seeing the Rockettes perform is part of the ritual of seeing New York City.
‘I am so proud’
In an email to Newsweek, Mesher said she spotted the video shortly after it was posted, and she was touched and surprised by the outpouring of support.
“Moments like that remind me why I do what I do,” Mesher said. “It is very easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind, but seeing people connect so strongly is extremely grounding. I am so proud that people were not only seeing me as a disabled woman, but also were acknowledging my dancing abilities.”
Mesher added that being a part of the Rockettes “means more to me than I can really put into words.”
“Being part of the Rockettes organization is an honor on its own, but having the opportunity to represent people with visible disabilities on a stage that iconic feels incredibly meaningful,” she said. “Especially this year, as it is the 100th anniversary of the Radio City Rockettes, it is so impactful to be representing different communities on the Radio City Music Hall stage.
“I’m proud, of course, but I’m also deeply aware of the responsibility that comes with it. If my presence helps even one person feel seen or believe that their goals are possible, then that’s what truly matters to me.
“It’s humbling, empowering and something I carry with a lot of gratitude.”
Newsweek has reached out to Mickey for comment via TikTok.
To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, click here.