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Details, renderings unveiled for major restoration of Apollo Theater in Harlem


Harlem’s iconic Apollo Theater is set to undergo its “first full-scale restoration” in the near future, and a first look at the changes was revealed on Tuesday.

New details were shared by the Apollo’s preservation team during a Landmarks Preservation Commission meeting.

First announced in 2022, Tuesday’s presentation provided a glimpse at the “extensive” proposed facelift to the famous facade and interior, some of which require approval from the Commission.

Existing conditions inside the lobby of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)
Existing conditions inside the lobby of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)

According to the presentation, the landmarked Apollo would replace and refurbish all its seating, expand the lobby, overhaul the HVAC system, upgrade the main auditorium’s acoustics, add new signage, fix the lighting, improve bathrooms and more.

Proposed changes to the lobby of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)
Proposed changes to the lobby of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)

The famous red “Apollo” signs above the marquee and attached vertically to the side of the building will have their neon lighting replaced with LED. The lettering itself would remain intact but the neon tubing would be switched.

Cas Stachelberg, of preservation firm Higgins Quasebarth & Partners, said the change is badly needed because the current neon letters often short out due to humidity and have to be repaired at great expense.

“For the period of a day or two when the letters are out, that makes the building just look like it’s not being cared for, which really couldn’t be further from the truth,” he said.

The current sign and proposed changes to neon LED sign. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)
The current sign and proposed changes to neon LED sign. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)

Most of the upgrades will be inside, including enlarging the lobby, adding a dramatic new carpet and a new cafe and bar. The auditorium would get a big new central chandelier, 29 additional orchestra-level seats and new carpeting and audio systems.

Proposed new decorative lighting fixtures for inside the auditorium of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)
Proposed new decorative lighting fixtures for inside the auditorium of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)

Built in 1913, the theater first opened its doors as the Apollo in 1934. Celebrated as the beating heart of Black artistry in New York City and beyond, the institution celebrated its 90th anniversary in January and is expanding its programming to include the Victoria Theater next door in March.

The current condition of the fabric wrapped walls of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)
The current condition of the fabric wrapped walls of the Apollo Theater. (LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION)

COO Aldo Scrofani said the plan marks the Apollo’s “first fully comprehensive renovation and restoration,” though it got a makeover in 2006 and was modified throughout the 20th century.

Tuesday’s plan was met with a largely warm reception from the commissioners, who offered several suggestions before the Apollo’s next presentation.

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