Podium: Jonelle Procope, Apollo President and CEO, Front - L to R: Marilyn Booker, Morgan Stanley Managing Director; Jacqueline Nickelberry, Owner of J Howell Holdings LLC; Christian Guardino, Former Amateur Night Child Stars of Tomorrow winner; John Merrell, NYSE Co-Head of Listings; Racquel Oden, Managing Director, Merrill Lynch; Patricia Zollar, Managing Director, Neuberger Berman and Daisey Holmes, President, BNY Mellon Foundation, and Managing Director, Corporate Affairs, Back- L to R: Billy Mitchell, Apollo In-House Historian and Tour Director; Marion J. Caffey, Amateur Night Producer; Nina Flowers, Apollo Director of PR and Communications; Carolyn Minick-Mason, Owner and Creative Director Love Notes, Inc. and CM2 Signature Events and Joan Haffenreffer, Citi Global Public Affairs Managing Director (184328)
Credit: NYSE/Amy Sims

In celebration of the Apollo’s 82nd anniversary Tuesday, the theater was invited to ring the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Apollo Theater President and CEO Jonelle Procope rang the NYSE Opening Bell surrounded by Apollo board members, supporters and staff. Before the Opening Bell, there was a rousing performance by 2014 “Amateur Night Child Star of Tomorrow” winner Christian Guardino. This very special day represents 82 years of rich history, cultural achievements and artistic brilliance.

Jan. 26,1934, the Apollo Theater opened its doors for the first time, presenting its inaugural show, “Jazz a la Carte,” featuring Ralph Cooper, Aida Ward, Benny Carter and his orchestra and “16 gorgeous hot steppers.”

The legendary theater—the soul of American culture—has always played a vital role in cultivating emerging talents and launching legends. Since its inception, the Apollo has served as a center of innovation and a creative catalyst for Harlem, the city of New York and the world.