February 26, 2009
Free backstage tours at Apollo for 75th anniversary
NewYorkology contributor Vidiot commits journalism by night, edits Cocktailians and explores NYC by day. He’s especially interested in the infrastructure, transit, architectural wonders, drinking establishments, and hidden corners of the greatest city in the world.
The famous Apollo Theater in Harlem opened its doors to the public this past Saturday and Sunday as part of a free two-weekend open house celebrating the theater’s 75th anniversary.
The open house will continue this weekend from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 2 to 7p.m. on Sunday.
This year is the theater’s 75th anniversary as the Apollo; it first opened in 1913 as Hurtig & Seamon’s New Burlesque Theatre.
During a Sunday tour, Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell, who has worked at the theater since 1964, told stories about working with James Brown and other performers and explained the history of the theater, the famous “Amateur Night”, and the Tree of Hope that every performer rubs for good luck. He drew talented performers from the audience for a mock “Amateur Night” and brought out a real “Amateur Night” winner to sing.
The open house also featured exhibits about the theater and its history, booths set up by Harlem cultural organizations, and tours of the stage, backstage, dressing rooms, and green rooms. The events are free, sponsored by Chase Bank.
Picture credits: Vidiot.
February 26, 2009 12:32 PM in Cheap Stuff, History, Kids, Sightsology, Tours
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