November 2020

November 2020
Tara Tubridy

(BA, Dance, ’04)

Q & A:

• What was your favorite class, who was your favorite professor, or what is your fondest memory of Hofstra?
  I have so many fond memories of my time as a dance major at Hofstra University. Being a dance student in college is a unique experience all in its own, and the faculty definitely enhanced that experience for me even more. I would have to say my favorite professor was Robin Becker. She always encouraged me to push past my limitations as a performer both physically and mentally, while also providing a wealth of knowledge.
• What was your first job after graduating from Hofstra, and what was the most valuable thing learned in that position?
  My first professional performing job after college was in a Christmas show in Branson, MO. My learning experience started even before that though, with the audition process. The entertainment industry is competitive. I learned very quickly how persistent and thick-skinned I needed to be. You hear a lot of no’s before you get a yes!
• What is your field of specialty, and how did you come to work in the industry?
  I started dancing at the age of 3, and I honestly cannot remember a time when I didn't want to perform. I believe performers, especially dancers, have it in their blood. You truly have to love what you do to be a dancer. I made auditioning my job upon graduating Hofstra, and landed my first gig pretty quickly. From there, I performed in two touring Broadway shows, as well as numerous regional theater productions before becoming a Radio City Rockette in 2006.
• What advice would you give Hofstra students?
  I would give students the same advice I told myself over and over when I started in this industry: Never give up! I knew both my strengths and my weaknesses, and I worked on my craft consistently. I think this can be applied to all different fields of work. Always try to keep learning and growing in your field, and believe that you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.
• In one word, how would you describe Hofstra?
  Memorable
• What is a typical day like for a Radio City Rockette?
  A day in the life of a Rockette is always exciting and different! We rehearse for the Christmas Spectacular 4-6 weeks before the show opens, 6 days a week, 6 hours a day! Once the show opens, we are performing 6 days a week, up to 16 shows in one week! We are also making other public appearances, doing interviews, and performing for special events. The schedule is exhausting but so rewarding. There is nothing like performing on the Great Stage at Radio City Music Hall.
• How do you balance work and life?
  Like any working mom, I feel like every day is a juggling act! I performed during both of my pregnancies, one of which was with twins! I also went back to performing fairly quickly afterward. I definitely wouldn't have been able to do that without the amazing support from my husband. Our families are also a huge help with the kids while I am performing. I have definitely mastered the skills of scheduling and multitasking!
• Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
  I have been blessed to be able to perform as a Rockette for the past 15 years. Not every dancer is lucky enough to have a career that lasts that long. Although I don’t believe I will still be performing at this level in 10 years, dance will always be a part of my life. I hope to still be involved, whether that be choreographing, teaching dance, or even just helping my girls if they decide they want to have a career in the performing arts.