What is the Apollo Theater known for?

The Apollo Theater is a cultural landmark known for legendary performances and iconic moments, presenting concerts, plays, and dance performances. It is often described as the 'Soul of American Culture'.

Where is the Apollo Theater located?

The theater is located at 253 West 125th Street in the Harlem neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, New York City, situated between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and Frederick Douglass Boulevard.

What is the history of the Apollo Theater?

Established in 1913 and completed in 1914 as the 'New Theater', it originally operated as a burlesque house for a primarily white clientele. It was formerly known as Hurtig & Seamon's New Theatre, as well as the Apollo Theatre or 125th Street Apollo Theatre.

Is the Apollo Theater a historic site?

Yes, the Apollo Theater was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 due to its architectural and historical significance as one of the nation's leading entertainment centers for over four decades.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Apollo Theater site / Ourisman Chevrolet Service Center in Washington, D.C.

What to know

This site in Washington, D.C., is identified as the location of a former Apollo Theater. While the world-famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York City, was established in 1913 and completed in 1914 as the New Theater, it is important to distinguish this D.C. location from that iconic landmark. The New York venue, for instance, was originally a burlesque house for a primarily white clientele and later became a National Register of Historic Places listing in 1983. Today, the physical space at this location in Washington, D.C., is occupied by the Ourisman Chevrolet Service Center. Visitors can observe the modern automotive service facility, which stands where a historic entertainment venue once existed. This contrast between a twentieth-century theater and a modern car dealership service center provides a glimpse into the urban evolution of the city's landscape. Unlike the Harlem theater, which sits between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and Frederick Douglass Boulevard in Upper Manhattan, this D.C. site is a distinct geographical entity. The Harlem theater is celebrated as the Soul of American Culture, hosting concerts, plays, and dance performances. In contrast, this local site serves as a a functional automotive hub, reflecting the change in land use over time.

Visitor tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you are viewing the site from the sidewalk.
Be mindful of traffic when observing the facility from the public right-of-way.
Keep your visit brief as there is no longer a theater to enter.

Nearby context

This site is located within the city of Washington, D.C., where modern commercial developments often overlap with the historic entertainment districts of the former past.