“Under her tenure, The Apollo’s resources have grown immensely, from a handful of staff to a team of dozens of incredible people, and from scattered programs to a robust array of initiatives and presentations across dance, music, education and more,” Ebanks tells EBONY. “The Apollo has always had such a profound impact on Black artists and American culture, and I look forward to advancing that mission and furthering the incredible groundwork Jonelle has laid for me.”
The Apollo honored Procope’s long and dedicated tenure at the 2023 Apollo Spring Benefit in New York City, which raised $2.2 million for the organization.
In her new role, Ebanks is already establishing exciting new programming for the historic organization. The Apollo and writer Ta-Nehisi Coates, Apollo’s Master Artist in Residence, have announced The Intersection, The Apollo’s upcoming Festival of Arts & Ideas.
Black artists, creators and cultural movers like playwrights Jordan E. Cooper and Michael R. Jackson, artist Bisa Butler and more will headline live panel discussions, workshops and music performances at the three-day event, which will be held from October 6, 2023 to October 8, 2023, at The Apollo’s Historic Theater.
In addition, Ebanks and Apollo have launched their seat theater ownership initiative. “We are offering Apollo supporters first access to become a part of its legacy by naming a seat in the new space,” she says. “They can purchase a seat, which will then have a permanent dedicated inscription engraved on a plaque and affixed to it.”
All donors who name a seat will also be invited to The Victoria Theater’s grand opening reception to see their designated chair in person.
