#United States #Kwanza Jones #Los Angeles, CA #Apollo Theater #Culture In Motion

Apollo and Kwanza Jones: Culture In Motion Roadshow

On December 2, 2025, a significant announcement was made on Giving Tuesday: the Apollo Theater, in collaboration with renowned artist and philanthropist Kwanza Jones, introduced "Culture In Motion," a groundbreaking national roadshow aimed at invigorating communities through artistic expression and empowerment. Slated to commence in January 2026, this initiative represents the Apollo's commitment to delivering nearly a century's legacy of cultural achievements directly into the neighborhoods across the United States.

Empowering Communities Through Art

The "Culture In Motion" initiative stands as a testament to the Apollo Theater's dedication to enhancing cultural access and fostering community connections. The roadshow aims to bring engaging programming and creative encounters straight to local communities, ensuring that the spirit of Apollo resonates beyond its iconic stage.

This innovative program is part of the Kwanza Jones José E. Feliciano Initiative's effort to amplify community engagement and creative partnerships. The Apollo was selected as the inaugural institutional partner in this multi-million dollar initiative, recognizing its pivotal role as a global cultural hub.

Kwanza Jones emphasized that while funding is a vital element, it serves merely as a starting point. The real focus is on empowering communities with strategic guidance, operational expertise, and access to invaluable networks that can stimulate meaningful change.

The SUPERCHARGED Boost Bus

A signature element of the "Culture In Motion" roadshow will be the SUPERCHARGED® Boost Bus™, a specially designed mobile cultural hub that will spread the Apollo's artistry into neighborhoods. This mobile unit will connect communities with live performances, storytelling sessions, and an essence of the legendary Amateur Night experience, rejuvenating the artistic spirit right in the heart of the public.

The Boost Bus aims to meet individuals where they are, offering them the resources and inspiration they need to thrive and express themselves creatively. The initiative reflects the belief that art has the power to impact lives profoundly and make a difference in communities.

Programming Pillars of Culture In Motion

The roadshow will feature four primary programming pillars:
1. Arts Access - Delivering live performances and creative showcases in various localities.
2. Community Engagement - Partnering with local organizations, schools, and cultural institutions to enhance collaboration.
3. Empowerment - Activations that fuel creativity, encourage innovation, and inspire action.
4. Legacy Innovation - Honoring the Apollo's rich heritage while adapting to emerging voices and technologies.

These pillars ensure that the roadshow does more than just entertain; they aim to create a participatory experience that empowers individuals in their creative pursuits.

A Nationwide Journey

The journey begins in Harlem with a send-off celebration at the Apollo Theater, followed by an official launch in Los Angeles during Grammy Week. The tour will include vibrant cultural hubs throughout Southern and Northern California, such as:

• - Los Angeles, CA
• - San Francisco, CA
• - San Diego, CA
• - Oakland, CA
• - Sacramento, CA

From California, the roadshow will extend to major cultural centers including Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, and Washington D.C. and more cities to be announced. International expansions are also being considered for early 2027.

Join the Movement

The Apollo Theater and Kwanza Jones are inviting communities to engage in this cultural movement. Organizations or individuals interested in hosting or participating in the Roadshow can find more information at boostbus.com. Through the hashtag #CultureInMotion, the teams encourage everyone to support and celebrate the deep connection forged through arts.

In a statement, Michelle Ebanks, the President and CEO of the Apollo, expressed her excitement about the initiative, noting that it aligns perfectly with Apollo’s mission to cultivate community through generosity and creativity.

Joy Profet, Chief Growth Officer of The Apollo, added, “This groundbreaking partnership with Kwanza Jones and the SUPERCHARGED team will not only help expand our cultural reach but is a pivotal move towards globalizing our initiatives, marking an innovative era for the Apollo.”

Following nearly a century of impactful performances and community engagement, the Apollo Theater is once again poised to redefine what is possible in cultural connectivity through the "Culture In Motion" roadshow. This into a vibrant platform that empowers individuals while celebrating the rich, thriving culture that defines their communities.