History and architecture
The Apollo Theater, built in 1913-14 as Hurtig & Seamon's New (Burlesque) Theater, spanned the two eras of Harlem's entertainment history. The design by architect George Keister displays elements of the neo-classical style. The construction of the Apollo reflected the popularity of vaudeville and burlesque in the Harlem of the 1910s. With the growth of Harlem's black population, the Apollo Theater, from the 1930s through the 1970s, became one of the nation's leading centers for the display of major black American performing talent.
Sources and further reading
This history comes from the Landmarks app’s historical catalog. Names and building uses may reflect the period described.