HARLEM, NY – May 10, 2017 – The Apollo Theater today announced details for its largest fundraising event – the 2017 Apollo Spring Gala, which will take place at the theater on Monday, June 12 at 7pm. The star-studded benefit concert will be hosted by award-winning actor and comedian Cedric The Entertainer and will feature performances by renowned artists, including CeeLo Green, Sheila E., Charlie Wilson, and Wé McDonald of NBC’s The Voice (who started her career winning Amateur Night at the Apollo). All proceeds from the celebration will support the non-profit organization’s year-round, world-class artistic, education, and community programming.
“Since its inception, The Apollo Theater has been home to legendary and up-and-coming artists alike, serving as an ever-changing driving force in popular music and culture not only in Harlem, but across the world,” stated Jonelle Procope, President & CEO of The Apollo Theater. “We are thrilled to announce this lineup of incredible talent for our upcoming Spring Gala that will help us to continue our legacy of cultivating talent by supporting the Theater’s year-round performing arts, education and community programming.”
Every year as part of the evening, the Apollo recognizes individuals and corporations for their outstanding contributions to the performing arts, community leadership and for their philanthropic support of initiatives in the African American community. This year, the Theater will present Peabody Award winning director and producer Stan Lathan with the Trailblazer Award for his substantial contributions to the performing arts. Lathan’s extensive credits include cultural classics ranging from “AMEN,” and “Sanford & Son” to “Def Comedy Jam” and “The Bernie Mac Show”, to Dave Chappelle’s recent comedy special, “Deep in the Heart of Texas.”
“If there’s anyone who deserves to be honored as a trailblazer, it’s Stan Lathan, and if there is any venue perfectly suited to showcase a great benefit concert it’s the Apollo Theater. I’m truly privileged to host this night celebrating the Apollo and Stan!” commented Cedric The Entertainer. “Regarding Stan, he really knows comedy, and he has produced & directed some of the most prolific comedians of all time across many iconic television shows. His talents have also stretched beyond comedy into other formats directing some of the most memorable dance performances on the small screen including Alvin Ailey, Martha Graham and Mikhail Baryshnikov. Stan is the man! I’m especially proud to be a part of this year’s Apollo Spring Gala because it’s an important and celebratory evening at the legendary Theater where all of the music and comedic greats have launched their careers. It’s of utmost importance to continue this tradition, raising funds for the Apollo’s incredible arts and education programs that will launch the world’s next generation of talent. Add to that some great performances by our special musical guests – – It’s going to be a high-energy, star-powered evening!”
This year’s recipient of the Corporate Award is Verizon, for their exemplary leadership in diversity, community leadership and innovation. Rose Kirk, President of the Verizon Foundation will accept the award on behalf of the company.
“Fueling tomorrow’s tech innovators while leveling the playing field for minority and underserved students is not only a priority for Verizon, it is our responsibility,” said Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer & President, Verizon Foundation. “We are honored to be recognized by the Apollo Theater for the work we are doing to provide free technology, access and hands-on learning to students in need across America. We are at a critical point when the world around us is shifting, with technology at its core. We need more kids to have access to quality education in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) so they are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.”
The Apollo Spring Gala begins with red carpet arrivals at 6:00 PM followed by the gala concert and awards ceremony at 7:00 PM with Music Director Ray Chew. The evening will also include a post-performance party with a lounge created by celebrity event planner and Apollo board member Bronson van Wyck.
Gala Chairs are: Robert K. Kraft, Laura and Richard D. Parsons, Ronald O. Perelman and Anna Chapman, and Karen and Charles Phillips.
Get social! For exclusive photos, updates and more, use hashtag #APOLLOGALA and follow the Apollo Theater:
To purchase Gala tickets or to make a donation to the Apollo Theater, please call 212-531-5330. For more information, visit www.apollotheater.org. Proceeds from the Apollo Spring Gala support the Theater’s year-round performing arts programming, innovative education initiatives, and community programs.
Tickets for the 2017 Spring Gala are now on sale. Performance only tickets go on sale to Apollo A-List members this Friday, May 12th at 10 a.m. Subscribe to Apollo A-List atwww.apollotheater.org. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday, May 15th at 10 a.m.
