July 3rd 2025.
The Apollo Theater, known all around the world, has officially closed its doors on July 1st for its very first full-scale renovation project. A grand transformation awaits the iconic theater as it undergoes a $65 million renovation over the next year. According to Time Out, the theater will be dark during this time as it receives a refreshed façade, a new LED marquee, upgraded lobby, modern AV systems, brand new seating, and various other major enhancements. However, not everything will be changing as some of the theater's historic features, such as the famous "signature wall" which has been signed by many greats, will be preserved.
Originally opened in 1914 and rebranded in 1934, the Apollo Theater has not seen such a major change in its look and feel in nearly a century. "It is the first large-scale renovation of the historic theater in our 91-year history," shares Joy Profet, the Apollo's chief growth officer, with NY1. While some work on the lobby had already begun earlier this year, the real deal starts on July 1st, as Profet explains. The closure of the theater coincides with the final in-house live show, a grand finale of Amateur Night at the Apollo. The show was closed by Neverson Cadesca, performing as Nev, while saxophonist Emanuel Garilus of Gainesville, Florida, took home the grand prize of $20,000.
But fear not, the show will go on! Performances will temporarily take place at the Apollo Stages at the Victoria, located just down 125th Street. This complex, which includes two smaller theaters, is part of the Apollo's broader expansion efforts. As for those passing by, they will notice scaffolding along the 125th Street side of the theater, while guest access has been redirected to a covered entrance on 126th Street. A temporary pop-up box office has also been set up beneath the marquee to assist visitors.
The renovation is aimed at creating a more open and connected atmosphere between the Apollo and the community. A new café and street-facing windows will be added to the expanded lobby, giving the theater a more welcoming feel. Even the iconic Wall of Fame will undergo a transformation, becoming a digital experience instead. However, the legendary Amateur Night, which is credited with launching the careers of icons like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Sammy Davis Jr., James Brown, Gladys Knight, Luther Vandross, D'Angelo, Lauryn Hill, and Jimi Hendrix, will be put on hold during the renovation. But fear not, it is expected to resume in mid-2026.
And as an added bonus, the Apollo will also be celebrating Ella Fitzgerald's centennial birthday during the renovation. So although the theater may be closed for now, it will come back bigger and better than ever, ready to continue its legacy as a hub for great talent and a beloved pillar of the community.
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