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Philippe Petit Performing
Throughout NYC
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September 9, 2004 |
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Note: Besides being probably one of the most important and interesting street performers of the 1970s, Philippe was a protégé of Francis Brunn. Thanks to Brian Dube for bringing it to our attention.
Philippe Petit Is Back to Street-Juggling in New York City as the headliner of The PLAY OUTSIDE! Festival produced by The Shakespeare Project. Philippe was the first modern day street juggler in Paris and many feel one of the best street performers of all time. He may be best known for his historic tightrope walk between the twin towers of the World Trade Center on August 7, 1974. It has been decades since he has worked the NYC streets, so this is a rare opportunity to see him in action. He will be doing 5 shows, one in each borough per day with a performance in Manhattan on 9/11 (Saturday) in Washington Square Park - his old turf.
In his circle of chalk, Philippe will present his silent character -- Lippo -- performing his unique brand of street theater: juggling, slight of hand, and improvisation for all ages.
Five boroughs, five parks, five days:
Wednesday: 9/8/04 - 6 PM Bronx
Van Cortland Park
Broadway & West 246th Street
Subway: 1 or 9 to 242nd Street
Thursday: 9/9/04 - 6 PM Queens
Rufus King Park
Jamaica Avenue & 150th Street
Subway: E, J, or Z to Jamaica Center
Friday: 9/10/04 - 6 PM Brooklyn
Sunset Park
Between 41st & 44th Streets and 5th & 7th Avenues
Subway: N or R to 45th Street
Saturday: 9/11/04 - 4 PM Manhattan
Washington Square Park
West 4th Street & Waverly Place
Subway: B, D, F, Q, A, C, or E to West 4th Street
Sunday: 9/12/04 - Staten Island
Snug Harbor Cultural Center
100 Richmond Terrace
Call for directions: 718.448.2500
The following is from Brian Dube:
For those of you who have not seen him (I imagine the majority) I highly recommend it. His shows are silent with very strong audience work. His pace is slower; his act develops over time and is somewhat indulgent - in a good way. His shows are all different - depending on the audience he works different gags and schtick. His show features juggling and slack rope. In the 1970s, many of us would watch multiple shows per day, and frequently from week to week on Sundays. His chalk circle in Washington Square Park is legendary. Pass the word. See you there! If you need details on the shows for the outer boroughs, email me.
Footnote: For those inspired by his artistry and would like to know and see more about him and the World Trade walk, I would highly recommend the documentary film: New York: The Center of the World. Part 8: 1946-2003. This 8 part film series is by acclaimed filmmaker Ric Burns. It covers 9/11 and much interview footage with Philippe. It is excellent and quite moving - I bought a copy after seeing pieces on TV and have viewed it several times. Available on DVD and can be rented.
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