Remote Benefit Concert To Raise Funds For Harlem's Apollo Theater

HARLEM, NY — Musicians and comedians will perform during a live-streamed concert to benefit Harlem's Apollo Theater as the historic venue remains closed due to social distancing measures enacted to curb the spread of the new coronavirus, theater executives announced this week.

The concert, called "Let’s Stay (In) Together: A Benefit to Support the Apollo Theater," will be streamed on the Apollo's website on Tuesday, June 2. Performers include musicians Kool & the Gang, Gary Clark Jr., The Root's “Captain” Kirk Douglas, Michael McDonald. Special guests include comedian Roy Wood Jr. and artists such as Warren Haynes, Teddy Riley and Doug E. Fresh.

"Let's Stay (In) Together" is part of a larger campaign launched by the Apollo to raise $4 million for the venue, which celebrated its 85th anniversary in 2019. Despite the fundraising goal, streaming will be offered for free. A portion of donations made during the concert will also go toward local businesses in Harlem.

Performers lined up for the concert will play songs made famous by some of the Apollo Theater's legendary acts such as B.B. King, Patti LaBelle and Stevie Wonder, according to theater executives.

"For more than eight decades, the Apollo Theater’s strength and resiliency have been as constant as the talent on our stages, but like non-profit organizations around the world, we are facing an unparalleled challenge. Immediate additional funding is critical for us at this time, and I am incredibly grateful to the generous donors and friends who have supported the Theater since we closed our doors in March," Jonelle Procope, Apollo Theater president & CEO, said in a statement.

The Apollo has been closed since March in accordance with city and state measures to restrict businesses such as nightclubs, bars and entertainment venues to help curb the spread of the coronavirus. Many New York state regions have been cleared to begin economic activities, with New York City expected to meet reopening benchmarks by June 8, but entertainment venues will be some of the last businesses to reopen.