CMU School of Drama


Monday, November 23, 2015

The Story Behind The Creation Of The Unisphere

90.5 WESA: It was the architectural centerpiece of the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair. It’s been seen in movies and television shows. It’s the iconic New York City landmark the Unisphere. Joining us with a detailed look at the creation of this structure is Robert Morris University professor Daniel Short author of the book Unisphere: Symbol of the 1964-1965 New York’s World Fair.

1 comment:

Tom Kelly said...

I love talking and learning about the 1964 worlds fair. My dad has pictures of himself when he was five standing in front of the unisphere. I have done a lot of research on the whole event because of its roots in themed entertainment and shows but the unisphere has a really cool story of its own. This recording did provide a few facts I did not know such as the other design ideas that they came up with. I always thought that the entire thing should have turned and revolved in some way, it didn't seem right that it stood still. I'm glad that it was a design idea but as usual it was money that made it not come to pass. I also didn't know that the steel was made in Pittsburgh but it does make sense. The most interesting thing that he said in my opinion was the way it was viewed then and now. It says a lot about style and popular culture in general. Many were concerned about the money, others wanted a different message for the fair, something less futuristics. many people today see the unisphere as not only a symbol for the fair but a symbol of the whole time period. A period where many people were looking to the future and new ideas. The unisphere either way has also become a symbol to the people who were there and the fun they had or the people that call queens their home.