Though events begin on July 24 and go through August 11, the 2024 Paris Olympics officially begin on Friday, July 26 with the opening ceremony. The event will be held outside the main stadium for the first time in Olympic history, and it will mostly take place in the center of Paris along The Seine. March rehearsals for this historic opening ceremony are scheduled to begin. It is envisioned as a three-hour river parade that would cover six kilometers.

One of France’s most talented directors, Thomas Jolly, entrusted with the responsibility of crafting an enthralling celebration on the Seine—a departure from the custom of Olympic ceremonies taking place within stadiums—is the idea behind this splendor.

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Thomas Jolly described having “a feeling of vertigo” when he was asked to serve as artistic director for the parade that would be seen by billions of people worldwide. Creating a ceremony where hundreds of competitors start their six-kilometer trek down the river—as opposed to the traditional stadium start—is the daunting assignment assigned to him, he told AFP.

Thomas Jolly

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Jolly had to deal with restrictions related to security, finances, architecture, and even animals. On top of this, the show couldn’t be practiced on location, which presented another difficulty. Well-known for his work with Shakespeare and the popular musical “Starmania,” he seems unfazed by these challenges. The ceremony in the open air is in keeping with the ambitious plans for the varied celebrations of contemporary France, which are expected to be “iconic” and “revolutionary.”

In addition to serving as the venue for the opening ceremony, the Seine will play a significant role in triathlon and open-water swimming competitions, depending on the state of the water. Jolly hinted at a celebration of the varied musical and cultural identities of France, hoping to highlight the nation’s modernity, despite the extreme secrecy surrounding his intentions. The Seine will serve as the backdrop for an incredible Olympic opening, setting the stage for a historic occasion. However, there were some potential risks he discussed.

Added constraints and director’s response

Jolly is aware of the critiques leveled by Jean Dujardin for the Rugby World Cup opening in September to steer clear of the mistakes made by previous ceremonies. With a three-hour show that skillfully blends parade, speech-making, and entertainment, Jolly is committed to producing a vibrant and modern portrayal of France. In response to queries regarding possible security risks, he confirmed that the show will remain on the Seine but noted that flexibility is required, adding even more difficulty to his assignment.

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He is keeping an eye out for weather-related threats, like as heat waves or summer storms, and is putting together elaborate backup plans. He is still dedicated to producing an opening ceremony for this enormous project that not only breaks tradition but also embodies a modern France, laying the groundwork for a memorable Olympic celebration along the famous Seine.

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