High Wire

Nik Wallenda Brings New Drive-In Show, 'Daredevil Rally,' to Nathan Benderson Park

Watch Nik Wallenda and crew perform death-defying stunts at his thrilling drive-in show at Nathan Benderson Park.

By Allison Forsyth June 3, 2020

Nik Wallenda walking over U.S. Highway 41, Sarasota. 

Come one and all to witness Nik Wallenda and his crew of daredevils perform thrilling acts at his new show, Nik Wallenda's Daredevil Rally. Marvel at high-wire walks, motorcycle stunts, the "wheel of death" and more high-flying acts, all from the comfort of your car. This drive-in style show will be at Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota, on Thursday, June 11- Sunday, June 14 and Thursday, June 18- Sunday, June 21. A portion of ticket proceeds will also benefit All Faiths Food Bank. Show times and tickets available here

This is 11 Guinness World Record holder Nik Wallenda's first time self-producing a show, not only to entertain his community, but to support his fellow performers during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"I've never self-financed a show," says Wallenda. "But because of what we're dealing with, I have a bunch of friends out of work. If there's ever a time to put on a show, it is now. I'm honored to help my friends and entertain my hometown." 

"The King of the High Wire" has even paused his own tours and speaking engagements due to the outbreak of COVID-19. His production debut with Daredevil Rally has allowed him to take on a larger role, how each act will flow to create an adrenaline rush from start to finish. 

"There are a lot of moving pieces involved," says Wallenda. "We have the best of the best acts here: a human cannonball, motorcycle and BMX/FMX riders; my wife is performing and I'm walking the wire. It's a combination of the best daredevil and circus acts." 

Nik Wallenda walking the wire with Daredevil Rally performers. 

On top of supporting his fellow performers, Wallenda sees this show as an opportunity to return to his roots. "I wanted to do something for my hometown," says Wallenda. "We're providing family entertainment, and the media promotion has allowed us to think about touring nationally." 

The drive-in style show will accommodate CDC guidelines and social distancing. Cars will be staggered with parking spaces between them, and audiences can tune into an FM radio station to hear the show. Carnival-style food and drinks will also be available, like funnel cakes, fried Oreos and a taco stand.  

"It's cool because you can see and hear the act from the comfort of your car, or you can bring chairs to sit in your own space," says Wallenda. "Even beep your horn if you want." 

Beyond the thrill, Wallenda hopes to portray a deeper message about overcoming fear and stepping outside our comfort zones, even in the uncertainty surrounding us.

"The world is living in fear right now, and I know exactly how that feels," says Wallenda. "I hope this show encourages people to overcome challenges and see that nothing is impossible."

Nik Wallenda's Daredevil Rally Drive-In Show opens on Thursday, June 11 at 6:30 p.m. and runs until Sunday, June 21 at 5 p.m. For show times and to purchase tickets, click here. Located at 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota.  

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