The Apollo Celebrates Its Next Chapter with Apollo in the Hamptons Weekend
Sept 9, 2026
BlackPRWire: Press Release
(Black PR Wire) East Hampton, NY — The Apollo expanded its annual Apollo in the Hamptons benefit into a vibrant weekend of programming that brought together artists, philanthropists, business executives, and cultural leaders to celebrate the institution's growing momentum as it prepares for the reopening of its Historic Theater in 2027.
The weekend featured an exclusive donor appreciation dinner, the inaugural Young Patrons Day Party, and the annual Apollo in the Hamptons benefit, welcoming hundreds of supporters and generating critical support for the Apollo's mission. Together, these events underscored the institution's commitment to championing Black artistic excellence, deepening community engagement, and investing in the future of one of America's most iconic cultural landmarks.
"Apollo in the Hamptons demonstrates the extraordinary community that continues to champion The Apollo and our mission. From longtime supporters to a new generation of patrons, this weekend reflected a shared belief in the power of Black artistry, culture, and community. As we look toward reopening our Historic Theater later this year, we're excited to welcome even more artists and audiences into The Apollo's next chapter," said Michelle Ebanks, President & CEO of The Apollo.
The weekend commenced on Friday evening (August 3, 2026,) with a Private Donor Appreciation Dinner honoring the visionary philanthropists whose generosity continues to fuel The Apollo's artistic programming, education initiatives, community impact, and Historic Theater restoration. Accompanied by a musical journey curated by acclaimed musician and composer Damien Sneed, the intimate gathering celebrated the enduring partnerships, cultural legacy, and shared commitment shaping The Apollo's future.
On Saturday afternoon, The Apollo welcomed more than 250 philanthropists, entrepreneurs, creatives, and community leaders to its inaugural Young Patrons Day Party. Designed to engage a new generation of supporters, the event brought together emerging leaders for an afternoon of music, connection, and conversation, reflecting The Apollo's commitment to expanding its community of champions and investing in the institution's future.
The weekend culminated with the annual Apollo in the Hamptons benefit on Saturday evening, welcoming nearly 300 artists, philanthropists, business leaders, elected officials, and cultural visionaries to Si Si at EHP Resort& Marina. The signature event raised critical support for The Apollo's year-round artistic and educational programs, community engagement efforts, and the restoration of its Historic Theater, while celebrating the institution's enduring legacy and bold vision for the years ahead.
Guests enjoyed performances by DJ Aktive, Brownstone, Estelle, Bobby Brown, and DJ Cassidy, alongside remarks from Charles E. Phillips, Chair of The Apollo Board of Directors; Patricia M. Zollar, Vice Chair of The Apollo Board of Directors; Michelle Ebanks, President and CEO and Joy Profet, Chief Growth Officer.
Held just weeks after the relighting of The Apollo's iconic marquee—the first public milestone in the Historic Theater transformation—the annual benefit celebrated The Apollo's enduring legacy while reflecting the extraordinary momentum leading into its next chapter. Designed by acclaimed architect George Keister and constructed in 1913 – 1914, The Apollo's Historic Theater has stood as one of the nation's most influential cultural landmarks and has been a New York City Landmark since 1983. The restoration and modernization project—the most comprehensive in the institution's history—will expand opportunities for artists, audiences, and the Harlem community through improved infrastructure, enhanced accessibility, greater artistic flexibility, and new artistic, educational, and community initiatives, ensuring The Apollo continues to inspire future generations of artists and audiences.
Apollo in the Hamptons was made possible through the generous support of Charles and Karen Phillips, American Airlines, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Carlos and Adora Whitaker, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, Howard Schiffman and Kristy Le, HSBC Bank, Influence Media Partners, JP Morgan Chase, PNC Bank, and Visa/Frank and Nina Cooper.
About The Apollo
The Apollo is an American cultural treasure. It is a vibrant non-profit organization rooted in the Harlem community that engages people from around New York, the nation, and the world. Since 1934, The Apollo has celebrated, created, and presented work that centers Black artists and voices from across the African Diaspora. It has also been a catalyst for social and civic advocacy. Today, The Apollo is the largest performing arts institution committed to Black culture and creativity.
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