Annual night for diversity

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Photo courtesy of Smithsonian

Many iconic performances have taken place at the Apollo.

In accordance with Black History Month, the Black Student Union is holding their annual talent showcase, Apollo Night.

The event is modeled after the shows held at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, which played a large role in the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s.

The legendary theater, built   in 1913, remains one of the most respected concert halls in the country.

 “Apollo Night is important for Black History Month because it is a remembrance of the first black oriented theater that held some of the greatest black talent,” BSU vice president Darius Cramer said.

The Apollo Theater holds  a pivotal place in  African American culture.

“It displayed talent in the [African American] community,” BSU president Melvin Houston said. “It was more harsh than today. If the audience liked an act they would clap, and if they didn’t the audience would boo.”

This BSU event will feature dancers, singers and musicians. The different performances showcased are an attempt to highlight diversity and talent in DBHS.

“This year’s Apollo Night is unique because of the fusion of all ethnic backgrounds and cultures performing and sharing their experiences, struggles and successes with each other,” Cramer said. “Apollo Night will encourage all communities to support each other and be open to learn about different cultures.”

There will be a dance and song performance by the Indian Culture Club among others that spotlight the various cultural backgrounds of Brahmas.

The members of BSU said they are striving to make sure this  year’s Apollo Night will be different from the previous years.

“We will be having food this time,” Houston said. “We will [sell] food from a local soul food restaurant.”

Even though the BSU has held Apollo Night annually, it is still not recognized as a DBHS official talent show.

“I hope it can become such a big thing that it becomes a school-wide talent show,” Houston said.

Apollo Night will be held in the DBHS theater tomorrow at 7 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door for $4 with a student I.D. and $6 without.