Apollo Theater

The Apollo Theater is a performance hall on 125th Street in Harlem that stands out with its neoclassical facade of light stone and large entrance doors. The auditorium extends across multiple tiers with red velvet and golden accents that bathe the hall in warm light.

The theater began in 1914 as a burlesque house that admitted only white audiences until it opened to all under new management in 1934 and became a major venue for African American artists. Over the following decades it influenced the development of jazz, soul, and hip-hop through the talents who first performed here.

Wednesday night amateur competitions continue to draw new talent and form a living tradition in the community. Audiences actively participate and give spontaneous feedback that can determine success or failure on stage.

Visitors can join guided tours that offer insights into the backstage area and the history of the venue, or attend one of the regular evening performances. It is advisable to reserve tickets in advance as popular events often sell out quickly.

A bronze replica of the Tree of Hope stands beside the stage and is believed to bring luck when performers touch it before going on. The original tree once stood outside another theater and became legend after it was cut down.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1914

Architects: George Keister

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Address: 253 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027

Website: https://apollotheater.org

GPS coordinates: 40.80993,-73.95011

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:27