Historic Apollo Theater Amateur Night: Grand Finale
THE ICONIC SHOW THAT HAS LAUNCHED COUNTLESS CAREERS
Join the Brown Club in NY for an unforgettable night of entertainment, history, and raw talent at the legendary Apollo Theater!
Apollo Theater
253 West 125th Street, NYC
7:30 PM Curtain
Meeting location details will be provided to attendees.
Experience a Historic Legacy!
Since 1934, "Amateur Night at the Apollo" has been a cornerstone of American entertainment history, serving as the launching pad for legendary careers in an iconic Harlem venue that has defined American culture for generations. This historic theater transformed into a beacon for Black performers during the 1930s when many other venues denied them access.
The Amateur Night competition has discovered and showcased some of the greatest talents in music history:
- A young Ella Fitzgerald won the very first Amateur Night in 1934, stepping on stage initially planning to dance before switching to singing at the last moment
- Luther Vandross was booed off the stage four times before finally winning
- 13-year-old Lauryn Hill was booed but powered through her performance
- H.E.R. performed Aretha Franklin's "Freeway of Love" at just 10 years old
- Machine Gun Kelly became the first rapper to win Amateur Night in 2009
Other legendary performers discovered at Amateur Night include James Brown, Billie Holiday, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson, Gladys Knight, and Dionne Warwick. Who will join these ranks at this year's Grand Finale?
What Makes Amateur Night Special
Amateur Night isn't just a talent show-it's an interactive cultural experience unlike any other! The notoriously tough Apollo audience decides who "Be Good or Be Gone" in this thrilling competition.
Each show begins with a festive pre-party featuring video and music by DJ Jess and Set It Off Man Greginald Spencer before the main competition begins. The energy, talent, and history converge to create a night you'll never forget!
IMPORTANT: Tickets are extremely limited and may not be available after May 24th! Secure your spot now.
See you at the Apollo!
Questions? Email: jjtp@brownnyc.org