The Apollo's amazing and thoroughly enjoy "Amateur Night at the Apollo," an outstanding variety talent competition tradition for now 90 years. For those who haven't seen it earlier on TV, some of the world's most famous performers have been discovered through Amateur Night, so watching it enables you to catch a star on the cusp of stardom! In this absolutely beautiful performance space, the theater organizes this event to bring to the stage adult acts plus (my favorite portion) "The Stars of Tomorrow," with incredibly talented and courageous kids. (Note - This last time we watched Mia Soleil Sanchez, a 13 year old who played keyboard and sang so well I suggest you check her videos online!) Amateur Night is structured to engage the audience to give feedback, along with a provide "YASS!!" or "BOO!!" paddle. DJs and hosts on stage warm up the audience in advance. After the "future stars" perform, a siren and The Executioner will dance off acts that get audience disapproval. Have heard a couple of times in the audience, someone who is just intent on heckling, which could bring things down. The audience is encouraged to be lively, especially when they bring all the surviving acts on stage to determine the winner by applausemeter. Given what we encountered during the last Amateur Night I attended, here's some advice to foreigners, out-of-towners, and young folk possibly not familiar with the Amateur Night experience: BE CONSIDERATE and DON'T NON-STOP TALK THROUGH THE SHOW!!! It's DISRESPECTFUL to BOTH those who are brave enough to get up on stage and ALSO to your audience neighbors who came to watch the acts! If you feel compelled to have a side conversation mid-show, either go up to one of the bars or lobby or alternatively save it to Intermission or afterwards! Others, who also bought tickets, (1) don't want to and (2) shouldn't have to be in a position to tell you to "SHUT UP!" That being said, Amateur Night is one of those fantastic, unique entertainment experiences New York has to offer - a fun time in my neighborhood I enjoy sharing with my friends and out-of-town guests. Will be back for more! read more

Apollo Theater - Amateur Night at the Apollo - Stars of Tomorrow kids talent portion with the amazing 13-year old singer Mia Soleil Sanchez - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Building is closed for renovation so I don't have anything to say. Would I be back? If I were in the area with someone who wanted to go but it's not my style to go by myself . read more

It's the Apollo Theater! It is an American Icon! The theater itself has been well maintained, which is important considering its important place in history. Have been here twice for Amateur night and had an absolutely amazing, wonderful, and delightful experience both times. Love the Apollo theater and am so thankful for all that it has contributed to the world. read more

See all

My sister and I attended the 90th annual amateur night. We were blown out of our seat with the talent we saw and were so proud to share the moment with people in the community. The Apollo is definitely a place of gathering, celebration, love, laughter and HISTORY. It was my very first time in the Apollo and I couldn't help but think about all of the talent that walked those halls. Everything was beautifully decorated and maintained the old school aesthetic it's always had. The staff was wonderful, helpful and diverse. I was happy to see so many different people working together. It was truly a place of magic and unity. read more

Apollo Theater - 90th Amateur Night - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Great experience at beautiful historical theatre. The performances lived up to all my memories and expectations. During my visit most performances were good or better during amateur night. No one was tapped danced off stage. LOL We were a generous crowd. The building looked as if a lot of money time and effort has been invested. It's beautifully maintained. The staff was professional and pleasant. When I purchased souvenirs the prices were very reasonable! If you have the opportunity to visit I highly recommend it. There a are some great shops and restaurants in the area to fill a long enjoyable visit! read more

See all

I enjoyed the night. It was a great night with the children singing their hearts out. A Christmas extravaganza read more

Apollo Theater - Apollo Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Another well-known Harlem gem is the infamous Apollo theatre. I've had the pleasure of attending several jazz concerts here and all the greats have played it. Tonight, we went to Amateur night and it's quite the show! It's very interactive and happens to be the longest running talent show in the US. Think 'American Idol' but the audience actively judges who wins and proceeds to the next round. Booing is allowed and our audience took that to heart read more

See all

Came for the amateur night, the show was terrific, and fun to pick the winners, but the acoustics, especially the bass, were so loud, my whole body was pounding from the beat and I did not find that comfortable at all. No need to have such a loud experience, you could lose hearing, so better to wear earplugs. My seat was broken unfortunately and so my back hurt too. But it is a lovely historic venue and totally accessible, they have an elevator to all levels. read more

Of course we just wanted to take pictures in front of the Apollo and maybe get a tour. Just our luck, they were having a special event. We inquired how we could be a part of this since it started at 11a and it was now after 5p. Supervisor came and spoke to us and offered us a 10$ ticket which was the college discount for the remainder of the show. We said yes please and thank you very much. Best 10$ ever spent! The first panel discussion that we were a part of included sports, racism and bringing community together. The second panel included celebrity chefs discussing the process of their recipe development and what things they have coming up. Last but not least was Kerry Washington sharing her writing process and a bit of her new book. Again, the best 10$ ever spent. I left out to use the restroom and one of the members of Ghetto Gastro was in the hall. I introduced myself and explained how my son and I purchased his sweet potato pancake mix in Target in North Carolina. He was nice. Then, my FAVORITE Carla hall was very engaging and taking pictures. It was a long day for us. I didn't mind my two french braids or the tourist hoodie. I refused to miss an opportunity. LOVED visiting the Apollo! read more

See all

It's a cultural institution. That services the needs of the community. From musical stars to my favorite students from performing art schools. Nothing else needs to be said. read more

I recently visited the Apollo theater. I was there for Luenell's stand up comedy. Getting inside the venue was pretty easy and surprisingly fast. If you visit here, pay attention to the multiple check points/bag checks. There's more then one. I noticed the line that was coming from the East side, was long. However the line coming from the West side had no wait. I was able to walk right now. Inside is absolutely beautiful. This building has alot of history and everything looks expensive vintage. I was seated on the main level so i didnt have to take any stairs up or anything. As soon as you step into the venue area, there is a bar. I was able to get drinks. I got patron with cocacola and a tequila sunrise. Both drinks were made well. They cost about $27 total. They have alot of ushers that assisted guest with getting to their seat. I thought that was great because it helped get guest to their seat quickly. DURING the show, multiple guest in front of me were seated in the incorrect seat. I think the numbers and letters identifying the rows are not bright or visible enough. It was quite confusing for older folks. The sound quality during the show was perfect. You can legitimately hear people talking from the upper deck. That's how strong the sounds vibrate through that building. We were able to hear Luenell's clearly. Before the show ended, we ran to the bathroom. We were trying to avoid the crowd. The bathroom could be updated, it resembles a school bathroom. It was clean and there was an attendant handing out paper towels after you washed your hands. Getting out the venue was also a breeze. We avoided the crowd so it worked out. Overall, i cant wait to come back and see another show here. read more

See all

While on vacation visiting NY, I had bought tickets for the Apollo Theater Amateur Night show on 10/05/2022 and all I can say is...SO MUCH FUN and definitely, a must-do if ever in the NY area! I mean, getting to check out the historic Apollo Theater is awesome in itself but attending an Amateur Night show takes it to the next level! If you never watched an Apollo Amateur Night episode on tv, this is the concept...people have to audition to appear on the show to showcase their talent (singing, dancing, ect) and the audience decides if that person is good enough to continue to perform by not booing them off the stage. If there are enough audience boo's, that performer is then escorted off the stage by the Apollo "jester", who basically tap dances them off the stage. A winner is than chosen from those who didn't get boo'd off stage by the audience members at the end of the night by cheering for your favorite performer(s). A noise meter is used to capture how loud of applause each performer receives. There were 7 performances on the night we attended (5 adult performances and 2 kid performances). The majority of the performances were singing/dancing acts but there was a spoken word performer. One of the performances and the winner, was a woman from Tokyo, who sang a Whitney Houston song. Her voice was so powerful (see video). In between acts, there is a comedic host who keeps the audience engaged & talks big noise about some of the performances! He was hilarious! The night was definitely a fun night from beginning to end! And I DEFINITELY took my role, as an Apollo audience member very seriously, and may even started the boo's for one of the performances (see attached video) :))...what?! No judgment..I had a job to do ;)). Parking: we found free street parking near the theater a few streets down & had no issues. Seats: We had the perfect seats and were right in the middle looking down on the stage. Below are the seats/section and see pic included in this review of the view we had. Sec CMEZZ, Row A, Seats 105 & 106 Till Next Time, ~Rebecca read more

Apollo Theater - Amateur Night at the Apollo on 10/05/2022 - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

I enjoyed visiting this legendary institution. They were closed for shows, in fact, they've been closed for two years but the gift shop was open. The gift shop is rather small for the history of this place but it's nice that there is one. The theater isn't as modern as I'd thought but we've come to learn that the state of New York currently owns the theater and I'm sure renovations are not a priority. Anyway, it was nice to visit the place where legends were born and got their chance at fame. We saw the lucky stump and a wall plastered with famous folks from the 1950's and on. Fun fact: my folks are from Brooklyn and my grandma and her twin sister actually performed here as adolescents. While they didn't get booed or swept off by the executioner, they never became famous either. However, they were super famous in our family, so there! Lol As you know, Luther Vandross, Lauren Hill and Dave Chappelle all were booed here early on in their careers during amateur night but hey, they eventually made it to fame. So there's hope for anyone! Apollo Amateur Night is returning this year and they're looking for new talent. If you got what it takes, go for it! read more

See all

We attended Amateur Night at the Apollo and it was everything we imagined and more. Such fun! Back in the day we watched Amateur Night on tv so there was a blast from the past. Of course there was a variety of talent -- always need someone to boo off -- which were very entertaining. They have a few modern additions, such as a DJ, that enhanced the experience. So glad we got to experience this in person finally. read more

Apollo Theater - Be Good or Be Gone!!!!!! - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

I used to be quite the night owl on Saturday nights because after "Saturday Night Live" finished at 1AM, I would watch "Showtime at the Apollo" right afterward. I remember all the musical and comedy acts that performed on that stage. Some were legends in the making, and others were amateurs who were deservedly swept away by 'Sandman' Sims. All of them would rub the Tree of Hope stump for luck before they performed. It's been on my bucket list to see a show at the legendary Apollo Theater, but alas, with the pandemic in full swing, there weren't any live performances when Jamie W. and I recently visited NYC. That didn't stop us from paying a visit where we stood in the hallowed theater. Only the front lobby was open, and it was set up as an Apollo souvenir shop, and right next to a commemorative poster was the lucky stump (photo: https://bit.ly/3yToscy). Or a reasonable facsimile. Oh what the hell, we rubbed it. RELATED - Exploring NYC? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2ZvQA2F read more

See all

As a photographer I have shot events both inside and outside the Apollo theater. They have nice street concerts during the summer. It's an iconic landmark that has been around for many years. Make sure you visit it and support it read more

See all

The interior is nice. Walls are filled with memories. It's the amateur night. The synergy is strong. Taking photos and videos are appreciated or ordered -:) and noise is encourage. The bathroom is so tiny, I've hard time to close the door ... Overall, it's a fun night. read more

See all

This is a stunning venue in Harlem! I came here last night for the first time to see Shoshana Bean's holiday concert. This venue is super historic and so beautiful. When you step inside it is like you are transported to a different era! I sat in the balcony and we had a really great view of everything. The sound quality was great and the show was fabulous! The only negative was that the check in process was a little all over the place. The staff seemed stressed and they needed a better system for checking vaccinations. The show actually started 40 minutes late because of it! I understand that the process takes longer than it did pre-COVID, but I have been to many shows that vaccinations had to be checked at and I haven't had to wait this long. Other than that, it is a great venue! I am sure they will get their check in system down. I look forward to seeing more shows here! read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

We went to see Machel Montano. We arrived late, but we were able to get in quickly. The atmosphere was fantastic, but it was a bit chaotic with the crowd in front of the theater. People were not standing where they were supposed to, but I understand that it was hard to control. The worst part was that they ran out of water, and it was very hot. read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Finally been to the historically Apollo. It was remarkable.The experience was nothing less than spectacular. Went for amateur night (the first one since Covid) for a work outing. The performances, the hosting and the vibe was all 10/10. Nick Cannon celeb hosted which was also dope. I love that they make the whole experience very interactive for the audience. This definitely won't be my last visit. read more

See all

Great time! Always wanted to experience Amateur Night at the Apollo! The host was amazingly funny! read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Even though there wasn't a show when we visit. We were still able to come inside and take pictures out in the lobby area. There was this one rude lady behind the counter. Attitude adjustment needed. You could still purchase tee shirts or other souvenirs to take home. Hopefully, I will be able to come back on my next visit to book a show. Legendary Apollo Theater has been around for so many years. Many of the greatest performers have been here to grace the stage at the Apollo. read more

See all

We had so much fun on our trip to the Apollo Theater. From start to finish I have no complaints! I booked a trip to see Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater for my book club. We were celebrating our 5th Anniversary and wanted to do something fun that didn't cost a ton of money. I felt that this was perfect. From booking with group sales (shout out to Toni), to talking to the Box office (shout out to Liz), everything went seamless. My tickets were waiting for me at the Will Call. They really check your bags at the door! No food, drinks or weapons are allowed in the theater. We had great seats (Orchestra Center) and the show was fantastic! I was all set to BOO everybody off the stage.....but they all had great talent :/ The pre-show was so much fun , dancing in the aisles, singing to the oldies.....I felt like a kid again :) Joe Gray warmed the crowd up just right!! Then the host and comedian of the show " Capone" came out to introduce the acts and he was the perfect host and so funny. He was nice enough to take a picture with me after the show. The kids , age up to 17 came out first. We were not allowed to boo them. We had to pick a winner from that group. Then the adults came out. I was so ready to BOO, but they were so good :/........well, maybe next time! The crowd also picked a winner from that group to go to the next round. Amateur Night at the Apollo has been around for decades and it was a great pleasure to be apart of this experience. We had a great time and would definitely go back. read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Finally of amateur night at the Apollo. The venue is well organized for ease in finding our seats and getting through security. Highly recommend amateur night to see some up and coming talent. What a great time read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

I find it surprising that the Apollo Theater celebrating 85 years, does not have multiple reviews. This theater is an Iconic landmark with so much history. The Apollo is where the greats have come to perform and be discovered. The saying goes if you can make it in NY you can make it anywhere... when truly in the Entertainment world if you can make it on the Apollo Stage then and only then can you actually make it anywhere. My earliest memories where as a child staying up to midnight on a Saturday to watch Amateur Night. Cheering for the good acts and laughing out loud at the bad ones and the Sandman ushering them off the stage. As I got older I have had the privilege and honor of attending the Apollo for both Amateur Night and other events. Sadly I was at the tapping of an Amateur Night the day news broke that R&B singer Aaliyah's plane went down. That day was a bitter sweet one. Most recently I was @ the Apollo for my company's annual meeting and it was great to be back in this historical theatre. To be in awe of its history, the greats that have graced the stage, and the wonder that this theatre possesses. Knowing how many people have graced that stage and rubbed the "Tree of Hope" and have gone on to entertain the world after making it right here in Harlem. This is a must for everyone. Just A Note: I believe that Black History is more then just a month and always say it's 365... the Apollo Theater is the epitome of BLACK HISTORY 365! read more

See all

Excellent venue and showcase of talent from across the country! Looking forward to next season! read more

See all

Perfect! tl;dr: Great service, especially for hearing impaired. We drove down from Boston to see Ta-Nehisi Coates' *Between the World and Me.* The Apollo was perfect. As we approached the venue, all we could see were lines and crowds of people. We weren't sure what to do so we got on line, like good doobies. It's what people do. Well, the Apollo knows people. Within seconds, one of the attendants approached us to ask about our tickets. He kindly re-directed us to the appropriate entrance based on our seating. He was perfect. And when we reached the correct door, I mentioned that I'd called ahead about accommodations for deaf/hard-of-hearing. I'd been told to ask for someone by name, and when I gave that name to the ticket takers, they knew exactly what to do. There was no BS. They were all about taking care of us. Within minutes, we were efficiently and kindly escorted to a different set of seats, a section set aside for hearing impaired. The Apollo takes ADA seriously. The set-aside section is front and center, maybe ten rows back. Did I say perfect? And they escorted us there and gave us hearing devices that are appropriately Bluetoothed to the microphones the actors use. This is how it should be done. I've been to theater in Boston and Washington, DC. It's nothing like this. (See my other reviews.) Everyone should take a lesson from the Apollo. First-rate. Perfect. Oh, and the show was really good. read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Came here to see a Double Dutch competition. The show was great! There were many teams competing for the number 1 spot, coming from all over the country and beyond...as far as JAPAN! They actually won! Congrats to the team! The reason for the 3 star review is that this place is run down. For a theater as Iconic and rich in history as this is, I am surprised that it is not beautiful as it can be, it is in need of renovation. I have been to many theaters this year and actually quite disappointed in the condition of this place. It was not dirty or anything, just very worn. read more

Apollo Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

This is a must do....for the culture. Really fun, family friendly and lots of photo ops...

Wow! I came here on a whim with a friend. Being new to the area, I didn't realize what a classic gem the Apollo Theater is. I walked over to the venue about 15 minutes before it started, only to be daunted by a line that extended almost down the block. The security and staff were so kind and helpful, adding to the vintage charm. Eventually, I made my way into the theater and was helped to my seat by a friendly usher. The stage itself is expansive and I don't think there's a bad seat in the house. I came on a Wednesday, which means amateur night. First was the kid's competition followed by the adults. The host was great and super interactive, which always makes things fun. The performers were all great and very brave. One star off because it was so loud, thank goodness for the random ear plugs I had stuffed in my bag! It was also very hot, but I'll chalk that up to the age and distinguishing nature of the venue. There isn't food on site that I saw, but there was a small "cafe" in the back that one could purchase drinks. read more

This location is where it's at in Harlem NY. I'm personally from Cali, but all our people know that Apollo Theater is where any and every one comes to perform. Saturday we had the honor and pleasure of witnessing one of our greats speak. Jamie Foxx is and will always be a legend. I can't wait until my next visit to the east coast. read more

See all

The crown jewel of Harlem. Once you are in here, the presence of the theater surrounds you. It creates an impression that you are a star, and this is your performance! The organization is direct and friendly, the bar is always accessible to provide you with cocktails. There is an atmosphere which creates a pathway for your mind and soul to unwind when you take your seat, like an out of body blast that sets the right mood. The stage captivates your attention, each word or note from the stage is critical in creating a perception of suspense and excitement. Every movement here feels like it is shifting to a beating drum, the lights tribute to enriching the experience. This combination is challenging to create, Apollo Theater can easily do this by heightening your senses and holding your attention. I advise every New Yorker to make it their goal, to visit the Apollo Theater at least once in their lives. read more

Apollo Theater - Smoothing view. - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

A night of song, dance, culture, and tradition. Since the 1930's talented performers bring their skills to the Apollo Theater for a chance to win prize money and local fame. I came to their semi-final match of Amateur night. Getting into the theater was quick but a little troublesome. They thoroughly checked our bagged and we had to throw out our water and left overs from dinner. After the ushers showed us down the steep steps to our seats, we were immersed in the culture. The Apollo Amateur Night Band was already deep in song and the master of ceremonies was singing 'welcome to the Apollo Theater'. The first thirty minutes was him singing and pulling audience members on stage and making them dance. The audience around me was on their feet as we screamed to see which section was loudest. And after everyone was filled with energy and excitement, the show began. The whole show was live streamed across the globe and the MC thanked every country that tuned in; Spain, Japan, India, Taiwan, etc. The kids came out first. At the end we voted by applause who would move onto the final round at a later date. The first half was the supportive section for the kids, afterwards was the ruthless portion for the adult competition. The Host introduced the executioner; the man who would tap dance the act on stage out of the theater. We were encouraged to 'boo' someone off the stage if we didn't like their act! There was a dancer from the Bronx who performed his whole routine on his knees, the Professor played a soulful song through a harmonica, and a young Middle Eastern boy stole our hearts as soon as he opened his mouth. Everyone who I wanted to win moved onto the final rounds. If you're in the area, come and enjoy the community of Harlem at Apollo theater; you won't regret it. read more