Paris Olympic Games 2024: Opening Ceremony Plans Unveiled
The Paris Olympic Games 2024 are set to break traditional norms with an extraordinary opening ceremony. Scheduled for July 26, the event will be held outside a stadium for the first time, along the Seine River. This innovative approach promises a spectacular show featuring 3,000 dancers, musicians, actors, and circus performers. The ceremony will span a six-kilometer route, with 326,000 spectators expected to witness the event live and over a billion viewers tuning in globally.
David Guetta's Exclusion Sparks Controversy
Renowned DJ David Guetta expressed his frustration at not being asked to participate in the opening ceremony. Despite his international fame and being one of the most listened-to artists worldwide, the artistic direction led by Thomas Jolly chose not to include him. Jolly emphasized that the selection criteria were not based on album sales but on the overall artistic vision for the ceremony. The soundtrack, curated by musical director Victor Le Masne, will feature a mix of pop, symphony orchestra, choirs, and electro loops, embodying the 'French Touch'.
Rehearsals and Preparations Amid Weather Challenges
Preparations for the opening ceremony have faced several challenges, particularly due to the weather. The last full rehearsal involving all boats was canceled on June 24 due to the excessive flow of the Seine. However, technical tests are set to resume from July 20. The boats will be gathered upstream of the Austerlitz bridge, the starting point for the ceremony, and will be subject to high-security measures, including mine clearance operations. Despite the weather setbacks, the organizers remain optimistic about the meteorological conditions leading up to the event.
- The casting for the opening ceremony remains a closely guarded secret, with only around ten people knowing the exact scenario. Speculations include artists like Aya Nakamura and Céline Dion, although Dion's participation is contingent on her health.
- The innovative approach of holding the ceremony along the Seine aims to 'break the codes' of traditional Olympic openings. The event will see 6,000 to 7,000 athletes parading on 85 boats, creating a unique visual spectacle.
- The rehearsals for the parade have been split into half groups, navigating between the Austerlitz and Jena bridges. Despite the challenges posed by heavy precipitation, organizers are confident about the weather improving in time for the ceremony.
