Modeled after the amateur show at the famed Apollo Theatre in Harlem, N.Y., Amateur Night has been a hit since the Ritz's Grand Opening in October 1999. Like the Apollo's show, the Ritz audience is the judge and jury determining winners by applause after all the acts have performed.

Contestants come from as far away as Orlando, Lake City and Daytona Beach to perform stand-up comedy, rap and R & B music.

Show time is 7:30 p.m. the first Friday of every month. The three winning acts from each month compete in the semi-finals, followed by the finals at the end of the year.

Each quarter, Ritz Kids Amateur Night takes the stage featuring talented youngsters ages 4 to 18. 

Auditions are held on the Tuesday following every show. Contestants my submit an audio or videotape for the auditions.