Apollo Comedy Club

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Showtime at Apollo still exist?

Showtime at the Apollo, the iconic talent showcase, is no longer airing as a regular TV series, but the spirit of the show lives on. The Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, continues to host live events, including the Apollo Comedy Club, keeping the legacy of discovering new talent alive. Special episodes and one-off revivals occasionally appear on television, maintaining Showtime at the Apollo's enduring influence. The venue's Amateur Night at the Apollo, which inspired the television show, is still a vital part of the Apollo's programming, giving emerging comedians, singers, and dancers a chance to shine on the legendary stage. So, while the original format of Showtime at the Apollo isn't currently a regular TV fixture, its essence thrives through ongoing live performances and periodic televised specials, ensuring that the Apollo remains a central hub for comedy and the performing arts.

What did they rub on Showtime at Apollo?

On Showtime at the Apollo, performers famously rubbed the "Tree of Hope" for good luck before taking the stage. This tradition dates back to the original Harlem Tree of Hope, a symbol of good fortune in the Black entertainment community. The tree stump itself sits at stage right in the Apollo Theater, and contestants would rub it for luck just before their performance, hoping it would help them win over the notoriously tough Apollo audience. The ritual became one of the show's most recognized moments, embodying both the history and hope that the Apollo represents for up-and-coming talent. The Tree of Hope continues to be a centerpiece of Apollo's live shows, including Amateur Night and Apollo Comedy Club events, serving as a nod to the theater's rich legacy and its ongoing support for new artists in comedy, music, and beyond.

Who got famous from Showtime at Apollo?

Showtime at the Apollo launched the careers of many now-famous entertainers. Notably, Steve Harvey, who later hosted the show, first gained widespread national attention through his Apollo performances. Other iconic comedians and musicians who got their start or were propelled to fame from the Apollo stage include Lauryn Hill, James Brown, Michael Jackson (with The Jackson 5), and Ella Fitzgerald, who famously won Amateur Night as a teenager. The Apollo became a proving ground, especially for stand-up comedians and singers, where a single performance could lead to industry recognition and stardom. The Apollo Comedy Club continues this tradition today, providing a platform for rising comedic talents to be discovered by a larger audience. The venue's ongoing commitment to new talent ensures that future stars will continue to emerge from its legendary stage.

Is Apollo still in Harlem?

Yes, the Apollo Theater is still located in Harlem, New York City, at 253 West 125th Street. This historic venue has been a cornerstone of African American culture and the performing arts since it opened in 1934. The Apollo remains a vibrant hub for arts and entertainment, hosting a diverse range of events, including the Apollo Comedy Club, concerts, dance performances, and its famed Amateur Night. The theater's location in Harlem, a neighborhood celebrated for its cultural impact and artistic innovation, continues to draw audiences from around the world. The Apollo's presence in Harlem is a testament to its enduring legacy as a launchpad for new talent and a gathering place for the community, maintaining its reputation as one of New York City's most iconic live entertainment venues.

Who presents Live at Apollo?

"Live at the Apollo," a popular British stand-up comedy series, is primarily presented by a rotating lineup of top comedians rather than a single host. The show was originally introduced by Jack Dee, who hosted the first two seasons and occasionally returns as a guest host. Since then, each episode features a different comedian who opens the show and introduces other acts, offering a variety of comedic styles and perspectives. Notable hosts over the years have included Michael McIntyre, Sarah Millican, Jonathan Ross, and Romesh Ranganathan, among many others. This rotating presenter format keeps the show fresh and showcases a wide range of comedic talent, making "Live at the Apollo" one of the UK's premier platforms for established and emerging comedians. The format has inspired similar live comedy showcases, like the Apollo Comedy Club in New York.