The Apollo, which is the largest Black performing arts organization in the nation, has appointed Michelle Ebanks as its new President and CEO.

The new position is a major moment for the media and entertainment industry vet. Ebanks is well known for her time serving as the CEO of Essence Communications — where she led the work of Essence magazine, Essence.com, and the outlet’s celebrated Essence Festival of Culture. She also previously held roles at Time Inc. as the general manager and financial director for Money magazine and vice president of Time Inc.’s corporate division. Ebanks also spent time as a corporate business manager for Condé Nast. 

Exciting Times for the Apollo

Ebanks is stepping into her new role at a very exciting time for the Apollo. The theater will be opening its new Victoria Theater in the coming months — which will include flexible performance spaces and office space.

The Apollo is also preparing to launch a full-scale renovation of its iconic Historic Theater. The renovation work included the launch of the Apollo Rising campaign to help raise capital for the costs of the theater updates and renovations. As of October of 2022, the campaign had raised $63 million of its $70 million goal. 

Ebanks will be replacing Jonelle Procope, who has served as Apollo president and CEO since 2003.

“Michelle joins The Apollo at a time of strength, forged by Jonelle and her team over the last two decades into one of the nation’s greatest cultural institutions,” said Apollo Board Chair Charles E. Phillips in a statement posted on the Apollo site.

Phillips added that Ebanks brings a deep understanding of how to create exciting cultural experiences.

“At a time when performing arts organizations are looking at how best to provide opportunities for audiences who are both hungry for in-person experiences and ways to participate with programming digitally, Michelle’s depth of knowledge will lead The Apollo to its next level of engagement with artists, audiences, and partners throughout New York, nationally and internationally,” Phillips said