Philippe Petit Commemorates 50 Years of Iconic High-Wire Walk with New Performance

High-wire artist Philippe Petit celebrated the 50th anniversary of his legendary walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center with a special performance at Manhattan's Cathedral of St. John the Divine on August 7 and 8. This event, located approximately seven miles from the original site, allowed Petit to reflect on his daring 1974 feat, which he described as both a significant milestone and a fleeting moment in his life. "I'd say it's a lifetime, 50 years, and yet it's nothing," Petit remarked during an interview with Nightline's Juju Chang. Petit's original walk, which took place on August 7, 1974, saw him balancing 1,350 feet above the ground, solidifying his status as a New York City icon. His audacious act has been immortalized in popular culture, notably in the Oscar-winning documentary "Man on Wire" and the 2015 film "The Walk," where he was portrayed by actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The anniversary performance served as a reminder of the impact of his original stunt on both his life and the world of performance art. In preparation for the "Towering" show, Petit invited audiences into his unique world, describing it as one filled with poetry and creativity. He shared insights into his training regimen at his private grounds in upstate New York, emphasizing the importance of connecting with his audience through his art. During the performance at the Cathedral, Petit not only showcased his high-wire skills but also reenacted the moment he was confronted and arrested by an NYPD officer, adding a layer of drama to the event. This blend of nostalgia and artistry captivated the audience, marking a significant moment in Petit's ongoing legacy.