On the 80th floor of 3 World Trade Center, a reception was hosted to introduce a performance called “TOWERING!!” commemorating the 50th anniversary of Philippe Petit‘s wire walk between the Twin Towers.
On August 7th, 1974, French highwire artist Philippe Petit did the seemingly impossible by walking on a wire between the Twin Towers. The daring illegal feat cemented him in New York’s history as he defied fear with his immense skill and artistry.
Today, 50 years later, Philippe Petit will be putting on a performance celebrating the legendary walk. A reception was hosted at 3 World Trade Center to introduce this anniversary performance. The 80th floor in which the reception was hosted had many artifacts related to the World Trade Center and Philippe Petit’s walk on display. Parts of the outfit he wore during his walk were showcased, as well as the bow and arrow used in the process of setting up the wire between the towers.
In other areas of the floor, articles and photos about the Twin Towers, their collapse, and the rebuilding of the World Trade Center were all there to see. Additionally, a collection of Philippe Petit’s drawings were held there, showing that Philippe Petit is an artist in a wide variety of ways.
One of the most memorable moments was when Philippe Petit balanced a rose perfectly still on his nose. At 74 years old, the incredible artist showed his mastery of balance.
During the reception, Philippe excitedly and proudly gave details about the upcoming performance. The performance will be called “TOWERING!!” (with two exclamation points specifically!).
One of the biggest parts of the show will be a performance by the artist Sting. He will be debuting a song he wrote about Philippe Petit’s highwire walk between the Twin Towers and playing two of his classic songs. Other artists that will be performing are Grammy-award nominated Jazz Clarinetist Anat Cohen and professional whistler Molly Lewis. Molly Lewis has recently been featured on the soundtrack for the hit film Barbie on the song “Meeting Ruth.” During the reception, Philippe Petit mentioned that there would be even more surprises in store.
“TOWERING!!” will be performed on August 7th and 8th at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in Manhattan.
A few of Philippe Petit’s drawings
