Mission Statement
The Apollo Theater Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit organization established in 1991, is dedicated to the preservation and development of the legendary Apollo Theater through the Apollo Experience of world-class live performances and education programs that:

• Honor the influence and advance the contributions of African-American artists; and
• Advance emerging creative voices across cultural and artistic media
  

Vision
Apollo Theater Foundation, Inc.'s vision is to expand the reach of the Apollo Experience to a worldwide audience.The world famous Apollo Theater is so much more than a historic landmark - it is a source of pride and a symbol of the brilliance of American artistic accomplishment. With its rich history and continued significance, the Apollo Theater, considered the bastion of African-American culture and achievement, is one of the most fascinating chronicles in American history.

History
It all started in 1914 when the theater was constructed on 125th Street, the heart of Harlem. Originally, it was named Hurtig and Seamon's New Burlesque Theatre and African-Americans were not allowed in the audience. In 1934: Ralph Cooper, Sr. decided to do a live version of his already popular radio show, Amateur Nite Hour at the Apollo, at the Apollo Theater, then owned by the Schiffman family. Ella Fitzgerald, who invented the vocal technique known as "SCAT", was one of the first Amateur Night winners. That same year, Cooper, Benny Carter and "16 Gorgeous Hot Steppers" dazzled the crowds with the theater's first "Colored Revue."

Then in 1935, Bessie Smith made her Apollo debut followed by an unknown vocalist by the name of Billie Holiday who graced the Apollo stage and mesmerized the audience with her undeniable style and talent. Soon thereafter, the Apollo Theater quickly became known the place "Where Stars are Born and Legends are Made" and "home" to thousands of major performance artists, fans, and patrons of the arts from around the world. The legendary venue has launched the careers of icons such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, James Brown and Lauryn Hill and continues to maintain its position as the nation's most popular arena for emerging and established African-American and Latino performers.

Click here to view Biography.com's Interactive Timeline of the Apollo Theater.