Amateur night at the Apollo celebrates 90th session
HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) -- Nestled in the heart of Harlem, the Apollo Theatre has been a cornerstone of Black history and culture since it first opened its doors. Now in its 90th anniversary year, staff spoke to PIX11's Zhané Caldwell about the theatre’s past, present, and future.
The venue opened in 1934 and is landmarked as the neighborhood’s oldest active theatre.
“The theatre has had a real impact on Black culture because when this started, Black artists were not allowed to go to any other big houses, so this became the home," said Amateur Night Producer Marion Caffey. "The haven for Black artists.”
The stage has witnessed the birth of a number of legends, from Ella Fitzgerald to James Brown. Some of the acts Tour Director Billy Mitchell has lived to see.
“Imagine meeting Stevie Wonder backstage before he’s about to perform with Earth, Wind, and Fire,” Mitchell said.
Briefly closed in 1976 after seeing a decline in performance count, the venue reopened in 1985, revitalizing the entire Harlem community.
“We were able to employ some of the people from the neighborhood and the economy from these various businesses went up 300 percent right away," said Mitchell.
Since its inception, the theatre has been home to Amateur Night at the Apollo. The contest has launched countless careers, like two-time Emmy-nominated pianist Kofi B. He came back to host the show’s 90th season after winning in 2022.
“I just hope the tradition continues and the excellence, the black excellence," Kofi said. "All the talent that comes through this stage.”
As staff looks to the future, they’re setting the stage for a new era of creativity — expanding their space and opening the Apollo at the Victoria a few doors down. Staff are hoping the theatre will continue standing as a timeless symbol of Black artistry as the world eagerly awaits the stories yet to be written on its legendary stage.
The theatre will be closed temporarily this summer for renovations, according to staff, and they plan to reopen next year revamped and better than ever.