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Manhattan · NYC landmark

Apollo Theater

253 West 125th Street · Manhattan, New York City

A Harlem music landmark and marquee worth knowing; the historic theater is undergoing renovation, so check official reopening information.

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Apollo Theater
Photo: Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA · CC BY 2.0

NYFE Summary

The Apollo’s early burlesque theater excluded Black patrons and performers. Its reopening in 1934 brought variety shows to Harlem’s growing Black community. Amateur Night became a route onto the stage for new performers, including Ella Fitzgerald. James Brown later recorded his live album here in 1962.

Bronze plaques in the Walk of Fame beneath the marquee honor artists connected with the Apollo. The institution also presents performances at its Victoria Stages.

NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.

Plan a visit

Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.

Official visitor information ↗

Sources & further reading

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