A few weeks after the end of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the sporting festivities are resuming in the capital. From August 28 to September 8, the Paralympic Games will enliven the City of Light under the eyes of the world. To kick things off, Thomas Jolly once again made a powerful impact with an opening ceremony filled with emotions. An event embodying the values of unity and inclusion, reminding us that there is still a long way to go to further integrate people with disabilities.
It is difficult to replicate such a marked success. Orchestrated by Thomas Jolly, the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games had captivated the world.
Despite a few inevitable controversies, the event was, on the whole, praised by both the French and international press, even being called the “greatest ceremony in history.”
Far from resting on their laurels, Thomas Jolly and his teams had to imagine a new performance on par with the first to celebrate the start of the Paralympic Games on Wednesday, August 28.
A Poetic Spectacle
The theme was clear: to maintain the festive spirit of the Olympics, which was so well-received on July 26, while raising awareness for the cause of disability. Titled “Paradox,” the three-hour ceremony successfully combined poetic moments with messages of unity.
Under significantly better weather conditions than during the first opening ceremony, 140 dancers, including 16 with disabilities, and 4,400 para-athletes participated in the celebration.
“Sportography” was another major highlight of the evening, showcasing Paralympic sports and athletes. #Paris2024 #ceremoniedouverture pic.twitter.com/f2RCVOjFjG
— France tv (@FranceTV) August 28, 2024
The iconic Place de la Concorde, was chosen as the backdrop for the event, with its magnificent obelisk standing proudly at the center of the stage.
Throughout the various scenes orchestrated by Thomas Jolly, Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman, and composer Victor Le Masne, the diversity of bodies was highlighted with a sense of dreamlike wonder.
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Featured Photo: © Paris 2024
