Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts

Listening to :: When You Believe - Mariah Carey

Art is an indescribable presence in our world.  From every blade of grass, to The Scream, to a child's smiling face, art is present.  This is why events like the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts, or PIFA, is so critical.  It brings art in many of its forms to the limelight, which is something that is of utmost importance at a time where art and music programs in public schools are in jeopardy or already cut.  Reminding the general public that art is indeed important can only help in such situations.

This year, PIFA paid homage to French art, focusing on Paris from 1910-1920.  As a result, there were many French products, food, and acts to be seen at the street fair.  Within the Kimmel Center itself there was a large illuminated Eiffel Tower that was nothing less than beautiful to behold.  Although there were many incredible acts at this year's PIFA, the finale really stole the show. And my camera's memory.  The world renowned circus artists La Compagnie Transe Express performed Maudits Sonnants, an act where they are hoisted over 100 feet in the air.  This alone isn't impressive until you mention that while being lifted into the air, they are playing gorgeous percussive music with a mixture of drums, cymbals, and bells.  And to top it off, three extremely talented acrobats are performing amazing stunts on ropes in the air.  And all of this is happening over Philadelphia's beautifully paved Broad Street.  To try to describe the act in any further detail would do it no justice, especially with my lack of eloquence.  Therefore, following I have two videos as well as some photos.  I hope that you enjoy and decide to (or continue to) support the arts.

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