A Toast to
The Apollo
The Howard Theatre Honors the Apollo's Kennedy Center Recognition
An elegant celebration at the Historic Howard Theatre — a prelude to the 47th Kennedy Center Honors, where the Apollo Theater was recognized with a special honor. Hosted by Phylicia Rashad, with performances by Frédéric Yonnet, En Vogue, and Jennifer Holliday.
Attendance
256 Notable Guests
Occasion
47th Kennedy Center Honors
Recognition
Apollo Theater Special Honor
The Beginning of a Partnership
Where It All Started
"A Toast to The Apollo" was an elegant celebration held at the Historic Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C., hosted by Phylicia Rashad. This event was a prelude to the 47th Kennedy Center Honors, where the Apollo Theater was recognized with a special honor — the first performing arts institution to receive this distinction.
Most significantly, this evening marked the beginning of a new, lasting relationship between the Apollo Theater and the Historic Howard Theatre — two of America's most iconic stages, united in their shared mission of celebrating Black artistic excellence.
The Evening's Stars
Performers & Host
Frédéric Yonnet
World-renowned harmonica virtuoso and musical innovator whose soulful performance set the evening's tone of celebration and reverence.
En Vogue
The legendary R&B vocal group brought their signature harmonies and star power to the Howard stage, thrilling the 256 guests in attendance.
Jennifer Holliday
The Tony and Grammy Award-winning powerhouse vocalist delivered a show-stopping performance that honored the Apollo's immense cultural legacy.
Phylicia Rashad
The iconic actress and cultural icon hosted the evening with grace and eloquence, guiding guests through a night of tribute and celebration.
The Partnership Continues
From Toast to Collaboration
What began as a toast in December 2024 blossomed into a full creative partnership. In April 2026, the Apollo Theater and the Howard Theatre co-presented Best of The Apollo — bringing Amateur Night to Washington, D.C. for the first time, with Clipse headlining and a sold-out crowd at the Howard.