Paris 2024 Olympics kick off with dazzling opening ceremony amid challenges
The Paris 2024 Olympics commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony that overcame the challenges of rainy weather and early disruptions.
The event, nearly four hours long, managed to shift focus from the morning’s alleged sabotage of France’s high-speed rail network to a celebration of French culture and values along the Seine River.
Delegations from various countries arrived on boats, creating a picturesque scene interwoven with artistic displays.
Under the direction of Thomas Jolly, the ceremony highlighted the rich history and core principles of France: Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
Football icon Zinedine Zidane ignited the event by carrying the Olympic flame.
In a creative pre-recorded segment, Zidane navigated through a Paris traffic jam before passing the flame to a group of children in the metro.
These children then carried the flame through the Catacombs and onto a boat, transitioning to a live shot of the Seine.
One of the standout moments was an unannounced performance by Lady Gaga, who sang Zizi Jeanmaire’s “Mon Truc en Plumes” by the river.
Despite not being listed in the advance program; her presence had been anticipated following sightings in Paris.
In a segment dedicated to “Equality,” French singer Aya Nakamura made a dramatic entrance from the Institut de France.
Clad in African attire and accompanied by the Republican Guard, she crossed the Pont des Arts.
Nakamura performed a medley that included her hit “Pookie,” a rendition of Charles Aznavour’s “For me formidable,” and her song “Djadja,” concluding surrounded by military personnel.
Guillaume Diop, a star dancer, added a magical touch with a rooftop performance.
His dance was synchronized with 400 other dancers from French ballet companies, all performing a contemporary piece.
The national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” was performed by 28-year-old Axelle Saint-Cirel, a rising star in the world of opera. Her selection to sing at the ceremony marks a significant milestone in her career.
Despite initial setbacks, the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony dazzled spectators and set an inspiring tone for the games, celebrating French culture and resilience.
Source: Africanews.com
