Apollo Theater to host ongoing hologram performances (Billie Holiday will be the first)

We’ve seen people bring out hologram performers before, but historic NYC venue The Apollo Theater will become the “first theater in the Untied States to offer presentations with hologram technology on an ongoing basis,” starting later this year. The first artist to be honored will be Billie Holiday, who would have turned 100 this year. More info via press release:

“We are so pleased to expand our programming and employ this dramatic, cutting-edge technology as we continue to find new and innovative ways to celebrate our rich legacy for contemporary audiences,” said Jonelle Procope, President and CEO of the Apollo Theater. “The possibilities inherent in this initiative are very exciting, allowing us the ability to show the enduring impact and relevance of artists across time periods and geographic locations. We’re looking forward to connecting our audiences with the artistry of great musicians, including Billie Holiday, through the magic of this technology.”

Billie Holiday honed her skills on the Apollo stage at every major phase of her career, from her debut at age 19 and throughout nearly 30 Apollo appearances. Holiday’s influence on generations of jazz singers and musicians is without peer. Her Apollo engagements included solo concerts, as well as performances with the Count Basie Orchestra, Roy Eldridge, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong. Holiday was inducted in the Apollo’s Walk of Fame earlier this year in a ceremony that included a performance by jazz singer Cassandra Wilson, one of the many contemporary musicians who credit Holiday’s influence on their careers.

“As we continue to celebrate Billie Holiday’s centennial, we are thrilled to partner on this initiative that will help connect contemporary audiences with Lady Day’s music and legacy in a fresh, exciting way,” said Jake Wisely, CEO of The Bicycle Music Company, which manages Holiday’s estate.

“We are so proud to partner with the Apollo, an institution that has given the world so much,” said Alki David, CEO of Hologram USA. “To be able to bring back epic artists on the historic stage that gave them their debuts is mind-boggling, and is exactly why I invested so much into this technology.”

Additional programming details TBA soon.

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