Students at Shippensburg University took center stage Thursday night for Night at the Apollo, an event celebrating the history of the legendary Apollo Theater and the artists who made their mark there.
Held in Stewart Hall on Feb. 20, the showcase featured more than 10 student performers who covered songs by icons such as Michael Jackson, Bill Withers, Tevin Campbell and John Legend. In a nod to the Apollo’s legacy of musical diversity, the evening also included rap performances and theatrical numbers, including "Never Enough" from "The Greatest Showman."
The event, hosted by the Residence Hall Association (RHA) and Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA), drew more than 50 students. Attendees enjoyed the scheduled performances as well as students who volunteered to show off their musical talents. Students went on to perform solos and duets, with one group performing “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus.
Beyond the music, RHA and MSA kept the energy high by giving away raffle prizes to lucky audience members. The event also featured video segments from popular performances at the Apollo Theater, Destiny’s Child in 1998, and Jay-Z in 1997.
Stewart Hall was lined with pictures of performers and entertainers who had the opportunity to showcase their talents at the Apollo Theater. “It was interesting to learn how much talent came out of the Apollo Theater,” one student said.
The event honored the Apollo Theater’s role in launching the careers of legends like Aretha Franklin and Lauryn Hill while giving SU students a platform to showcase their talents.
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