New York
Architecture Images-Harlem and the Heights Apollo Theater |
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In the heart of New York City, on 125th Street, there is a place that needs no introduction. Yesterday…A
place where thousands of young artists have stepped out into the
spotlight and launched their careers. A place "where stars are born and
legends are made." The legendary Apollo Theater is so much more than an
historic landmark - it is a source of pride and a symbol of the
brilliance of American artistic achievement. From 1934 when the Apollo
first introduced its world-famous
Amateur Night which launched the careers of legendary artists
like Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Michael Jackson, D'Angelo and Lauryn
Hill, the Apollo has maintained its position as the nation's most
popular arena for emerging and established black and Latino performers. Today…During the 2000-2001 period, the Apollo Theater Foundation developed a vision to restore the Apollo's position as a leading performing arts venue and to firmly establish the Apollo as a community-centered institution. The Apollo has made a dramatic resurgence over the last year and a half with the addition of a new executive management team; a rejuvenated Board of Directors, including several top entertainment, business and civic leaders like AOL/Time Warner CEO, Richard Parsons; music guru, Quincy Jones and Atlantic music mogul, Val Azzoli. In addition, several other high profile changes have occured, such as the opening of a major new Broadway style musical, Harlem Song, directed by Tony Award winner, George C. Wolfe; the regular headlining of major shows, and benefits with artists such as Michael Jackson, Tony Bennett, Stevie Wonder, Vanessa Williams, Salma Hayek, Wynton Marsalis, Rosie Perez, The Strokes and David Byrne among others. The commencement of an ambitious historical renovation of the 88-year old theater has already resulted in a significant upgrading of the theatrical production values with the installation of state-of-the-art lighting and audio systems. Finally, there is the return of a new and improved season of Apollo Amateur Night featuring greater diversity in talent and celebrity guest artists. Other signs of the Apollo's comeback are the strengthening of its community outreach programs such as the Free Films for Kids program, and concerts featuring the best of the Harlem artistic and cultural society were staged free of charge for the community. Over $10,000 was raised and donated by the Apollo to the Harlem community Red Cross outreach program. Latin Nites at the Apollo, a showcase for the global influence, multiple genres and artistry of Latin musical styles debuted at the Apollo on 2001 and just commenced it's 2002 season at the theater. Dance Theatre of Harlem's 2001 and 2002 inaugural seasons, Whoopi Goldberg's one-woman show, and the Jazz Foundation of America's benefit, "A Great Night in Harlem", with Bill Cosby have all played at the Apollo Theater signifying the rise of a new cultural renaissance in Harlem. Tomorrow…More exciting events are ahead such as:
No other institution has had a greater impact on the entertainment industry and world culture as a whole. Entertainers from Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones to the modern rock bands of Korn and The Strokes, have all been inspired by the legends who have emerged from the Apollo Theater. Furthermore, all of them have welcomed the chance to be part of the Apollo's legendary audience or to perform on its hallowed stage. Long associated with innovation and creativity, the Apollo now has the unique opportunity to set a new standard of excellence: Come share in a new era of our legendary history… |
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links |
http://www.apollotheater.com |
With special thanks to www.nyc.gov |