Harlem Theaters: From Hammerstein's Harlem Opera House to the Apollo Theate

Come join us in person for an exciting journey through Harlem's rich theater history! Harlem’s 125th Street once thrived as a hub of theaters and culture. Oscar Hammerstein opened the Harlem Opera House in 1889, soon followed by venues like the Alhambra, Victoria, and Weber & Fields’ West End Theatre. In the early 20th century, Jewish, African American, and Latin artists and audiences shaped a vibrant cultural exchange that influenced America’s songbook. This presentation traces Harlem’s historic theaters and the musical legacies rooted in their stages and stories.

John T. Reddick is a long time resident of Harlem and a noted scholar of its architecture, ethnic and music cultures. A Columbia University, A'lelia Bundles Scholar, he has curated exhibitions and written extensively on Harlem's Black and Jewish Music Culture 1890-1930.

Meeting point: 515 Lenox Avenue (aka Malcolm X Blvd.) in front of the Schomburg Center.

This event is offered as part of the Carnegie Hall Festival - United in Sound: America at 250

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Harlem One Stop & Harlem Cultural Collaborative