The Apollo Theater Shines Anew for the Next Generation of Rising Stars

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Aug. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing the historical legacy of the famed Apollo Theater to give a stage to future stars, CENTRIC announced today the debut of the new original series APOLLO LIVE.  Hosted by funny man Tony Rock, the six-episode series premieres Saturday, December 1 at 8:00 PM* – with a special sneak preview simulcast on BET and CENTRIC on Sunday, November 25 at 11:00  PM* following the SOUL TRAIN AWARDS.  The show's expert talent advisers legendary songstress and Grammy Award winner Gladys Knight, hip-hop pioneer Doug E. Fresh and R&B hit maker Michael Bivins will give guidance to each hopeful contestant as they aspire to jumpstart their careers.  The winning contestant from each episode, chosen by the electric live audience, will be rewarded with a cash prize.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120517/NE09028LOGO )

Executive produced by Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx  along with  Marcus King and Don Weiner, the series put a fresh spin on the classic variety show "Amateur Night" at Harlem's iconic venue, including a talent showcase and a singing competition and promises a bevy of special guest appearances and star performances.   

For more information on APOLLO LIVE and all of CENTRIC's series and specials go to CentricTV.com. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to Centric TV's multiple social media platforms:

• On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/CentricTV
• On Twitter by using hashtag: #ApolloLive and following us @ApolloLiveTV and @CentricTV

Also, please visit our brand-new press website, www.betpressroom.com, for BET downloadable series info, photos and videos.

*All times ET/PT

About CENTRIC

Centric is a 24-hour music and entertainment channel that reflects the lifestyle and sophistication of today's African-American and multicultural adult viewer.  With a finger on the pulse of an ever-changing beat, its compelling music content fuses Soul, R&B, Neo-Soul, Hip Hop, Reggae, Gospel, Jazz, Old School, New School and everything in between with today's hottest artists. It is a unique mix of music, culture and lifestyle programming that embodies the lives, tastes and aspirations of the CENTRIC viewer: All you. All day. All night.

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SOURCE CENTRIC