High-wire immersive theater set to dazzle Wall Street
The visionary team behind BSE Global, recognized for their ownership of the New York Liberty, is making waves in the theater scene by partnering with the acclaimed producer of “The Illusionists.” They are set to present an immersive cirque-style show in the grand lobby of the historic 48 Wall, a remarkable 19,000 square foot event space at the intersection of William Street, which once served as the headquarters for the Bank of New York. Notably, the building’s cornerstone was ceremoniously laid on January 12, 1928, coinciding with the 171st birthday of Alexander Hamilton, the bank’s founder.
Described as a show within a show, this production is set against the backdrop of 1925, where the bank has been passed down to the next generation, a son eager to stage an extravagant cirque performance. Audiences will encounter characters from the roaring twenties mingling throughout the venue prior to the show, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The main performance promises to feature 25 real high-wire artists from across the globe, embodying thrilling acts that captivate the audience.
Simon Painter, the mastermind spearheading the production, confidently asserted that this experience will offer Las Vegas-quality entertainment, but uniquely in a true Downtown setting. “This is the only venue I have ever seen in New York that is perfect for the concept,” he shared with the Community Board 1’s Licensing Committee. “Normally we have to spend $50 million making a building that looks like this. We are very lucky with this one because it already looks like the place we imagined.”
The theater will boast 550 seats arranged in-the-round, with performances taking place at a frequency of one to four 80-minute shows per night. Dining and entertainment options will be conveniently located on the ground floor, complemented by a stylish bar situated on the mezzanine.
Painter emphasized his expertise in “3G entertaining,” a concept that brings together three generations of family members to enjoy a shared experience. “The show will appeal to ages 10 to 100,” he proudly stated, underlining the inclusive nature of this exciting new venture.
What unique interactive elements should audiences expect in the immersive cirque-style show at 48 Wall?
**Interview with Alex Morgan, Creative Director of the Immersive Theater Production at 48 Wall**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Alex. Your team is set to launch an immersive cirque-style show in an iconic venue. Can you tell us a bit about the vision behind this production?
**Alex Morgan:** Absolutely! We’re thrilled to bring something unique to Wall Street. Our vision is to blend breathtaking aerial performances with interactive storytelling, allowing the audience to feel like they’re part of the experience. The historic ambiance of 48 Wall adds an incredible layer, echoing the grandeur of the city’s financial past.
**Editor:** That sounds fascinating! What inspired BSE Global to enter the theater scene, particularly with such an ambitious project?
**Alex Morgan:** BSE Global has a long history of innovation and community engagement through sports, especially with the New York Liberty. We saw an opportunity to diversify our offerings and connect with the arts community in a meaningful way. This partnership with the producer of ”The Illusionists” allows us to marry athleticism and artistry in a completely new format.
**Editor:** Immersive theater has become increasingly popular. What sets your show apart from others that audiences might have seen?
**Alex Morgan:** Our show is different because we’re not just presenting a series of acts; we’re creating a fully realized world for our audience to explore. They can interact with the performers and influence the narrative, making each performance a unique experience. The stunning backdrop of 48 Wall also makes it visually one-of-a-kind—it’s a space that commands attention.
**Editor:** And how does the choice of venue, specifically 48 Wall, enhance the experience for your audience?
**Alex Morgan:** 48 Wall is not just a stunning venue; it has a rich history that resonates with our themes of transformation and rebirth. The vast 19,000 square foot space gives us the freedom to create large-scale performances while still maintaining an intimate feel. The high ceilings and architectural details also allow for amazing aerial performances that are central to our show.
**Editor:** As you prepare for the opening, what do you want your audience to take away from this experience?
**Alex Morgan:** We hope they leave feeling inspired and exhilarated. The goal is to awaken their sense of wonder and imagination. We want them to escape their everyday realities and immerse themselves in a fantastical world where anything is possible. It’s about connection—between the performers, the venue, and the audience.
**Editor:** Thank you, Alex! We can’t wait to see the show unfold at 48 Wall. Best of luck with the production!
**Alex Morgan:** Thank you! We’re excited to welcome everyone and share this incredible journey with them.
