After overcoming political challenges, major train disruptions, and the threat of defecation in the Seine, the Paris 2024 Olympics officially kicked off under cloudy skies. Designed to rival the Super Bowl in grandeur, this opening ceremony featured pop legends like Lady Gaga, who rehearsed on a grand piano floating down the Seine, and Celine Dion, making her comeback with an Edith Piaf classic. Other stars included R&B sensation Aya Nakamura performing songs by Charles Aznavour. Artistic director Thomas Jolly orchestrated the event, paying tribute to French cinema and culture.
A Grand Spectacle in Paris
For the first time, the opening ceremony took place outdoors, transforming the Seine into a stage with a nautical parade of 85 boats carrying 10,500 athletes. Starting at Pont d’Austerlitz and ending at the Eiffel Tower, this parade highlighted Paris’ iconic landmarks. Over 3,500 performers participated, creating 12 tableaux that blended historic sites with contemporary artistry. This gender-balanced Olympics edition marked a significant milestone in inclusiveness.
Unforgettable Performances
- Zinedine Zidane: The legendary soccer player appeared in a pre-recorded video at the Stade de France, passing the Olympic flame to children, followed by a spectacular display of the French flag colors.
- Lady Gaga: Delivered a colorful performance of “Mon Truc en Plumes” accompanied by Moulin Rouge dancers, playing on a floating piano.
- Celine Dion: Made an emotional comeback singing “Hymne A L’Amour” halfway up the Eiffel Tower beneath giant Olympic rings.
Tributes to French Culture
- French Revolution Segment: Metal band Gojira and opera singer Marina Viotti performed with a dramatic backdrop of fire-belching cannons.
- Aya Nakamura: Sang her hits “Pookie” and “Djadja” on the Pont des Arts, accompanied by the French Republican Guard orchestra and choristers.
Artistic Highlights
- Dance Performances: From Moulin Rouge high-kicks to a splashy display in a fountain, dancers captivated audiences along the Seine.
- Parkour Athlete: A torch-bearing athlete leaped across rooftops, evoking the video game “Assassin’s Creed,” in collaboration with Ubisoft.
Homage to French Cinema
The ceremony celebrated French filmmaking, featuring nods to the Lumiere Brothers and Georges Méliès, alongside a special segment with the Minions from the “Despicable Me” franchise.
Fashion and Rain
A red-carpet catwalk showcased young French designers’ work, featuring stars from “Drag Race France.” Despite the rain, which soaked everyone from LeBron James in a plastic poncho to performers, the event’s spirit remained undampened.
The Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony was a historic and spectacular event, blending tradition with modernity, and setting the stage for a memorable Games.
Source: Variety
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