Jennifer Jones (Rockette)

[4] Other requirements, according to The New York Times, included, “a slender figure, long legs, and the ability to perform 20 eye-level kicks while retaining proper posture.”[2] She had a fifteen-year career with the RCMH Rockettes, which included a national tour and televised performances such as Comic Relief IV, an HBO TV special from May 12, 1990, filmed at Radio City Music Hall, which featured Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, and Robin Williams with the RCMH Rockettes.

As its chief choreographer, Markert sought absolute precision and uniformity in the movements of the dancers through syncopated, intricate steps based on soft-shoe and tap.

In 1982, its director and choreographer, Violet Holmes, defended the RCMH Rockettes’ lack of diversity on artistic grounds when questioned by The New York Times on why no African American dancer had ever been chosen for the line.

[8] Holmes explained that the Rockettes had a rich history as a precision line, and its girls needed to act as mirror images on the stage.

“We've come up with a show that's all 88 – 88 pianos, each with 88 keys, and the 88 greatest legs in show business.”[11] The 12-minute spectacle showcased 1,200 performers, which included 44 Rockettes, 400 swing band members, 300 Jazzercisers, 88 tuxedoed pianists simultaneously playing on 88 Kimball grand pianos, and two college marching bands (San Diego State and USC).

The story followed Little JJ on her quest to becoming a Rockette, an aspirational allegory of how dreams can be realized through determination, courage, hard work, and talent.

Jones has also garnered recognition for her children's book On the Line: My Story of Becoming the First African American Rockette, documenting her journey in dance.

Moreover, Jones has developed the empowering "Dancing Jenn Doll" collection for children, emphasizing talent, diversity, and self-affirmation.