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Timing has always been a part of theApollo Theaterslore.
But the Apollo isnt in the business of making stars.
And sometimes that requires being told to wait.
But what theyre telling the legends well, they werent legends at that time was that theyre not readytoday.
The wait is worth it.
The lights are off at the Apollo, but theyre still invested in sharing music.
[Moving] our auditions online is one of those key ways we can lower the barrier of access.
Instead of lining 125th Street in Harlem, hopefuls are filling Marion Caffeys inbox.
Then Caffey reviews every single one.
I go through those folders and watch them myself, he explains.
But you dont have to be a five to make it through.
You want good people, you want not-as-good people, Caffey politely explains.
You have to sort of build an entertaining evening.
Despite the shake-up, Caffey is seeing the same timeless talent show out yet again.
Even their song choices remain consistent.
It takes a lot more time, but the talent really is no different.
I dont get better talent live than I get online.
Hey fam, keep em coming!!
They may be a great singer but singing the wrong song, he said.
So Ill send an email back saying, We love your voice.
How about something by this artist?
The feeling is the more, the merrier.
But next year, the movie came out.
She immediately recognized the song while sitting in the theater, watching Jennifer Hudsonstand her ground.
I went Oh, yeah, this song.
I want to practice this song forever, she recalled.
This is my anthem.
So if I was given the opportunity to perform at the Apollo, it has to be this song.
The Apollos magic took its time.
The Apollos digital auditions are just one way theyre upholding the theaters traditions during the pandemic.
