Friends of the Apollo

Generous support from Oberlin College alumni, friends of the college, and community members have made the purchase and renovation of the Apollo Theatre possible. 

College Properties of Oberlin, a wholly owned subsidiary of Oberlin College, purchased the historic Apollo from twin brothers William and Sandy Steel. College Properties of Oberlin has since hired Cleveland Cinemas  to manage and program the 840-seat theater.

The first phase of renovations, including upgrades to building codes and the lobby and concession areas, were completed in partnership with local businesses and other interested parties. The Apollo’s grand reopening took place in fall 2009. 

The second phase of the project included creating a new performance space as well as a venue for community events. 

To support the second phase of the project and beyond, a Friends of the Apollo organization was established. Its fund-raising activities will benefit the theater’s ongoing and future programming and educational outreach activities.

The Friends of the Apollo Steering Committee include actors Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito, local arts advocates Kevin Flanigan and Jaqui Willis, and Oberlin alumni Elizabeth Ignat-Bausch ’91 and Justin Ignat-Bausch ’90. The late filmmaker Jonathan Demme also was an early supporter and committee member.

Want to support the Apollo Theatre? Become a Friend of the Apollo Theatre by making an online donation .

For questions about the Friends of the Apollo and to make a gift, call the Office of Development at (440) 775-8550  or send an email to giving@oberlin.edu .