“It’s Showtime at the Apollo” by David Rickert
According to Ted Fox in Showtime at the Apollo, “The Apollo probably exerted a greater influence upon popular culture than any other entertainment venue in the world. For blacks it was the most important cultural institution–not just the greatest black theatre, but a special place to come of age emotionally, professionally, socially, and politically.” Located in Harlem, the Apollo Theater was one of the most important centers of black culture in the twentieth century and continues to this day to be a wealth of innovative programs and artistic greatness.
The Apollo Theater was built in 1913 or 1914 at 253 West 125th Street as a burlesque theater. It changes hands quite a few times before being purchased by Leo Brecher and Frank Schiffman, who placed an ad in the New York Age calling it “finest theater in Harlem.” By this time the Harlem Renaissance was in full swing as the Apollo became one of the major centers of activity for the movement.
It should come as no surprise, then, that many former greats made their debut at the Apollo. A 17-year old unknown by the name of Ella Fitzgerald made her singing debut there in 1934 and won the right to compete in one of the Apollo’s famous amateur nights (she won $25). The list of names of performers that graced the stage of the Apollo on their way up is a virtual Who’s Who of black performers: Billie Holiday, James Brown, the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, Mariah Carey, and others.
Of course like many theaters from the beginning of the twentieth century, the Apollo fell on hard times and was converted into a movie theater in 1975 (Brecher and Schiffman were still the owners at the time.) It was purchased by the state of New York in 1991 and was given a $65 million renovation that included new lights and new sound.
Over time the Apollo has been a popular spot for live recordings. The most famous in probably James Brown’s legendary sixties recording, with B.B. King’s following a close second. However, newer bands like the Arctic Monkeys and Ben Harper have also found the vibe at the Apollo irresistible for recording a live album.
The Columbus Jazz Orchestra is here to recreate the scene at the legendary theater and the many star performers that graced the stage. Sit back and enjoy the trip through some of the greatest music of the twentieth century.