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Annual event pays homage to Apollo's past, features local talent in smaller show than last year
February 6, 2006 —
The Malcolm Field Theatre for Performance Arts was taken over by screaming fans that cheered and danced on Friday night during "Showtime at the Apollo, SVSU Style."
The stage was recreated to look like the famous Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York, with the Cardinals' head as the rubbing post, and student "J-Rock" as the sandman.
Student Life along with student organizations Women of Elegance, Men of Distinction and Organization for Black Unity sponsored Showtime at the Apollo. These organizations wanted to give people an opportunity to showcase their talents in a "real world" environment that was honest but also funny.
Before the night kicked off, a tribute was paid to the late Coretta Scott King for her memorable services and loving spirit. The program would not have been complete without the presentation of the history of "Apollo Night."
After respects were given to those of the past, the DJ cranked up the volume, playing the latest hits, and the crowd went wild.
Host John McCullough kept the crowd entertained with his dance moves, attempted raps and comical gospel singing.
"I was one of the best hosts for SVSU's Apollo Night," McCullough said with a grin.
This year's turnout was appreciated, but not nearly as big as last year's. According to McCullough, there were also more acts in previous years.
Ten talents went forth Friday, which included a solo performance, two duets and remaining group performances. The brave souls were Lauralean Cheatham, James Tiggs with Jazzy J Harris, Forte Hip Hop Dance Team, Julie Bachand, Peanskean, King Tutt, DIA Records, Valley Voices Gospel Choir, Cecil Langley and Orlesha Banks with Krystal Hicks.
Shockingly, none of the acts that went forward were booed offstage as some were last year. This meant that the Sandman, dressed in a tightly fitted pink shirt with baggy pants, was not able to whisk the Terrible away. Oddly, this also meant that there was stiff competition for the performers.
Banks, 20, and Hicks, 18, both of Detroit, were the eventual winners of the annual Student Life event.