Thank you for your interest in the Apollo Theater’s Virtual Historic Tour.

The Apollo has served as a center of innovation and a creative catalyst for Harlem, the city of New York, and the world for more than 87 years. Because of the restrictions placed upon the theater by COVID-19, we are unable to host on-site historic tours – despite continuing interest in the Apollo’s history, legacy, and ongoing cultural contributions. Our virtual historic tour has been created to provide patrons an opportunity to explore the Apollo Theater’s storied past and bright future, while gaining behind-the-scenes access to this iconic venue, through the entertaining and inspiring storytelling of Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell and rarely seen images and video from the theater’s archives.

Is the tour live or pre-recorded?

All Apollo Theater virtual historic tours are hosted live by Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell, guaranteeing a unique experience and giving guests the opportunity to ask him questions about the theater and his own remarkable journey.

Who is Billy Mitchell?

Billy Mitchell is an actor, director, voice-over artist, mentor, producer, and lecturer. To tourists, Apollo Theater patrons, celebrity entertainers, and friends in the Harlem community, Billy Mitchell is “Mr. Apollo.” Spirited and charming, Mr. Mitchell knows the Apollo Theater like the back of his hand and is one of the longest tenured employees at the historic venue. As a young child, he began running errands at the theater for Apollo performers. Since then, he has worn almost every hat the theater has to offer including gift shop manager, stagehand, and even Amateur Night Producer, where he auditioned and coordinated the weekly productions. In 1991, Mr. Mitchell was named the Apollo Theater’s Historical Tour Manager and is now the landmark theater’s Tour Director and resident historian. In addition to his work at the Apollo, Mr. Mitchell has held positions in the finance and fashion industries, and is an accomplished stage and screen actor.

How long is the tour?

The tour takes approximately 60-75 minutes, but because each tour is unique, all times are approximate.

What does the tour consist of?

The tour features live, in-person narration, a question and answer section, exclusive archival photos and video of performances and interviews, and a  mock Amateur Night segment – a beloved feature of Mr. Mitchell’s in-person tours that allow participants to give a brief demonstration of their own talents, be they music, dancing, comedy, poetry, or other means of expression.

How is the tour conducted?

All public tours are hosted on the Apollo Theater’s Zoom web meeting platform.

How many people can participate in the tour?

Tours conducted on the Apollo Theater’s Zoom platform are limited to 100 total participants, including Mr. Mitchell and an Apollo technician.

How much does the tour cost?

$15.00 per ticket + $2.55 Eventbrite fee

How do I reserve an Apollo Theater virtual historic tour for my organization?

Group tours are booked through Eventbrite. For corporate tours, contact corporate.tours@apollotheater.org

Are there refunds?

Refunds will be allowed up to 72 hours in advance of your scheduled tour. 

Do I need a specific version of Adobe Flash (or a similar software) to view?

System requirements for Zoom can be found here: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362023-System-requirements-for-Windows-macOS-and-Linux 

I didn’t receive my Zoom link via email, what do I do?
If there is an issue, please contact box.office@apollotheater.org or ​​(212) 531-5305.