Harlem Tutors

About Harlem

Harlem is a neighborhood in Manhattan, New York, that was made famous during the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920’s and 30’s. The Harlem Renaissance was an artistic boom in the African American community. During that time, countless African American musicians, writers, actors, and theater companies worked their way into the American limelight.

Harlem quickly grew into an entertainment hot spot with several entertainment venues. Theatres like the New Heritage Repertory Theater, National Black Theater, Lafayette Players, Harlem Suitcase Theater, and the Rose McClendon Players, opened and welcomed many influential African American actors on stage. While venues like the Savoy Ballroom, a famous swing dancing place, created places to go and celebrate the artistic revolution. In fact, the Savoy Ballroom was just one of 125 entertainment venues including speakeasies, cellars, lounges, cafes, taverns, supper clubs, rib joints, theaters, dance halls, and bars and grills.

The Apollo Theater opened in Harlem, and quickly became known for its African American performers. Later, the Apollo Theater was home to Showtime at the Apollo, a television variety show that showcased new talent. Today, the Apollo Theater Legends Hall of Fame, includes Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Michael Jackson, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Elton John, Little Richard, Hall and Oates, Ella Fitzgerald, Smokey Robinson, Billy Eckstine, Gladys Knight, The Pips, The Jacksons, Quincy Jones, Patti LaBelle, D'Angelo, and Prince. The Apollo Theater was no stranger to star studded talent.

In the 1960’s, several institutions helped ensure future of the arts for the next generation. In 1965, Walter Turnbull started the Harlem Boys Choir; which became much more than a singing group. The group expanded into the Choir Academy of Harlem, which offered regular educational curriculum; as well as rigorous voice training in classical, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, and gospel music. The students traveled and performed around the world and were featured in several soundtracks. At its peak, the academy enrolled over five hundred boys and girls at one time.

Later, Arthur Mitchell opened up the Dance Theatre of Harlem; a school and dance company for classical ballet and theater. Mitchell danced with the New York City Ballet, until 1968, when he was sent Brazil to start the National Ballet of Brazil. When Mitchell was on his way to the airport, he heard about the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. This, and the Civil Rights Movement inspired Mitchell to forfeit his trip to Brazil, and start the Dance Theatre of Harlem instead.

Harlem has a rich history as the epicenter of African American arts and entertainment. Harlem finds many ways to celebrate its heritage, including the largest African American Day Parade. The annual parade began in 1969, and is a celebration of African culture, and African American history. Harlem could tutor other areas in celebrating their heritage and promoting the arts.

Harlem tutors want every student to do well in school. If your student is struggling, a Harlem tutor might be able to help. Every student deserves the chance to succeed.