NEW YORK — The Apollo Theater is packed, and Usher is set to entertain.

Usher’s persona took center stage in the concert film “Usher: Rendezvous In Paris,” directed by Anthony Mandler and distributed by AMC Theaters. The film premiered on Thursday night at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem.

“Thrilled to be here tonight,” Usher expressed on stage before the screening. “I’m energized, who else is excited? I truly appreciate the dedication each person involved in this film brought—its passion and commitment is simply incredible.”

The film was filmed last year during Paris Fashion Week at La Seine Musicale and aims to capture the spirit of Usher’s Las Vegas residencies, as noted in a press release. The movie is divided into four segments, showcasing his greatest hits, such as “Confessions Part II,” “Love In This Club,” and “Yeah!”

“At times, we need to embrace those moments of closeness to truly value one another’s contributions, allowing us to succeed together,” Usher remarked. “This is merely the starting point. Are you ready?”

The evening was rich with sophistication at this iconic New York venue, which has played a significant role in the careers of numerous Black artists, including Usher, who received the Apollo’s Icon Award earlier this year as part of the venue’s 90th-anniversary festivities.

Upon entering, guests were greeted with red roses and received chocolate-covered strawberries after the show, reminiscent of Usher’s tradition of sharing them with enthusiastic fans during his Las Vegas shows. Attendees enjoyed Usher’s signature popcorn topped with jalapeños for an extra kick, accompanied by Rémy Martin cocktails with creative names like “Burn” and “Make It Rain.”

In a playful nod to Nicole Kidman’s AMC ad, Usher humorously adapted some lines: “It’s funny how sweaty feels just right in a place like this, where ushers become legends,” he quipped. “I brought the A to AMC.”

The evening also featured the playful use of “Ushbucks,” his novelty currency decorated with his image, which Team Usher and fans tossed around during enthusiastic moments of the film. The audience erupted in cheers and sang along throughout the screening.

The 45-year-old artist praised director Mandler and their 25-year collaboration, expressing gratitude to his family and wife Jenn Raymond for being his steadfast support.

Following the film, Usher took a trip to the front row seats at the Apollo, where he was met with a standing ovation and cheers from the crowd.

How to view ‘Usher: Rendezvous In Paris’: Ticket Info

“Usher: Rendezvous In Paris” is set for a limited theater run beginning September 12.

Usher’s upcoming New York concerts: The Past Present Future Tour kicks off

The artist will extend his stay in New York, shifting from Harlem to Brooklyn’s Barclays Center to launch his series of tour performances. Concerts are scheduled for Friday, Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday.

Contributions by Brendan Morrow