photo by steed media service

New York has seen many traditional musical landmarks come and go. Most recently, in 2006, the legendary punk rock club CBGB’s closed its doors forever. But, as the scenery continues to shift, one institution remains fi rmly fi xed on Harlem’s 125th Street, the infamous Apollo Theater. Nina Flowers is the PR manager for the legendary venue, and appreciates what the theater means to the city.

“As the infrastructure of New York City is changing, [there are] still things that are quintessentially New York,” says Flowers. “The Apollo is New York — the Apollo is Harlem.”

Featuring some of the biggest acts from James Brown to T.I., the Apollo means more to the community than just a place for entertainment; it’s an historical landmark. Flowers believes its longevity can be attributed to its fl exibility.

“I think it’s mixing a little bit of the old and a little bit of the new,” she explains. “We still have our traditional amateur night show every Wednesday. That’s something that everybody enjoys. We also have the Circus of Soul, from the creators of the UniverSoul Circus. We try to create partnerships that allow us to grow and remain young.”

For Flowers, the chance to work at the Apollo is a dream come true.

“I saw Prince for the fi rst time at the Apollo Theater; I saw the Notorious B.I.G. for the fi rst time at the Apollo Theater,” Flowers shares. “I am a Harlem native, [and] growing up in Harlem, I always wanted to go to the Apollo. I have signifi cant memories associated with the Apollo.”

With a little help from Flowers, the Apollo continues to make memories for new generations. - todd williams

For more information, visit www.apollotheater.org.

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