BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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After five years of extensive restoration following a devastating fire which took place in 2019, Paris’ iconic Notre Dame Cathedral celebrated its reopening on December 7, 2024, with a star-studded event. The cathedral, which suffered severe damage during the 2019 blaze, reopened with a concert featuring world-class artists and performers in an emotional homage to its enduring legacy.
Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, Notre Dame de Paris has existed as a symbol of French Gothic architecture and cultural heritage for a very long time and so, with its restoration to its full majestic grandeur, there just had to be a celebration of equal magnificence.
To mark the occasion, Pharrell Williams joined an elite roster of artists, including classical legends Yo-Yo Ma and Lang Lang, as well as opera singers Pretty Yende and Benjamin Bernheim, for an outdoor performance against the illuminated cathedral facade. Along with a host of seventy choristers–the voices of fire choir, Pharrell delivered an extremely exciting rendition of his global hit “Happy,” adding a contemporary touch to the evening’s grandeur that stole the show completely.
The Grammy-winning artist, producer, and fashion innovator, has built a career blending genres and pushing creative boundaries and known for hits like “Get Lucky” and “Blurred Lines,” Pharrell has continued to inspire with his music.
His performance at Notre Dame certainly underscores his ability to unite diverse audiences, effortlessly creating moments of global significance.
Ultimately, this reopening was more than a concert; it was a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the enduring spirit of Notre Dame. As it welcomes the public once more, the cathedral reclaims its role as a beacon of culture, history, and inspiration for generations to come.
