By Patricia McDougall
On Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, Reggie Van Lee, chair of the Howard Theatre joined Chip Ellis, owner of the iconic Howard Theatre, to produce “A Toast to the Apollo,” a glittering celebration featuring an extraordinary lineup of performers.
The event was a precursor to the 47th Kennedy Center Honors, where the Apollo Theatre became the first organization to be recognized by the institution. The Howard Theatre event was hosted by Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress Phylicia Rashad, who lent her grace and charm to the event.
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“A Toast to the Apollo,” an event honoring Harlem’s legendary theatre, is held Dec. 6 at The Howard Theatre in D.C. (AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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(Left) Chip Ellis, owner Howard Theater, honors Kamilah Forbes, executive producer for the Apollo and Jonelle Procope, past president and CEO of the Apollo, alongside Reggie Van Lee, chairman of the board for the Howard Theatre.
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Tony and Grammy Award-winning singer and actress Jennifer Holliday performs live at the Howard Theatre in the nation’s capital.
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Violinist Leanne Holmes entertains guests on the red carpet of the VIP Reception at the Howard Theatre “A Toast to the Apollo”
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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En Vogue, the R and B group made up of Rhona Bennett (left), Terry Ellis and Cindy Herron, deliver their signature harmonies and timeless. (AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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A crowd gathers at the Howard Theatre in D.C. to celebrate the Apollo ahead of the 47th Annual Kennedy Center Honors, where the Harlem theatre became the first organization to receive the recognition.
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Laisha Dougherty (left), Dr. Steven Johnson and Aaron Myers
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Trumpet Player Donvonte McCoy delivers a tribute to Quincy Jones, who died on Nov. 3. (AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Chip Ellis, owner Howard Theater (left) takes a moment with singer and actress Jennifer Holliday; Reggie Van Lee, chairman of the board for the Howard Theatre; Actress Phylicia Rashad and former First Lady of D.C., Cora Masters Barry at the Howard Theatre.
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Urban Jazz Harmonicist Frédéric Yonnet performs live at the Howard Theatre on Dec. 6.
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Angie M. Gates, president and chief executive officer of Events DC, delivers remarks.
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Marvin Bowser (left), Mike Yates, Gretchen Wharton and JR Clark
(AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
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Shown here: Award-winning artist and entertainer (left), DJ D-Nice, award-winning social impact strategist and Crown Act Champion, Dr. Adjoa B. Asamoah, and actor Omar Dorsey. (AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall)
The night featured powerhouse performances by Tony and Grammy Award-winning singer and actress Jennifer Holliday, whose commanding vocals captivated the audience. The ladies of En Vogue, the chart-topping R and B group, delivered their signature harmonies and timeless hits, while urban jazz harmonicist Frederic Yonnet added a soulful, innovative sound to the program.
Attendees included Events DC President and CEO, Angie M Gates; OCTFME Director, LaToya Foster, Former First Lady of D.C., Cora Masters Barry, and Mrs. Virginia Ali, owner of the Historic Ben’s Chili Bowl, all of whom made the spectacular evening of Black excellence an unforgettable night.
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