Lady Gaga Brings Cabaret Flair to Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony on the Seine
A Spectacular Start: Lady Gaga's French Cabaret Performance Near Notre-Dame
On a dazzling Friday evening, Paris witnessed an extraordinary Olympic opening ceremony, with Lady Gaga serenading the crowd near Notre-Dame Cathedral. Singing a French cabaret classic, "Mon truc en plumes" (My Thing Made of Feathers), she was surrounded by dancers as vibrant plumes of blue, white, and red smoke soared above a bridge over the Seine. This set the stage for a breathtaking event that showcased the city's charm and grandeur.
Athletic Parade on the Seine: A Unique Procession
Athletes were ferried on a fleet of barges along a 6 km stretch of the Seine, passing iconic Parisian landmarks. The Greek boat, as per tradition, received thunderous applause, but the biggest cheers were reserved for the boat carrying the refugees' team. Spectators marveled as fountains shot jets of water into the air, athletes waved enthusiastically, and a robust police presence ensured security.
High-Speed Rail Sabotage: A Stark Reminder of Security Risks
Just hours before the ceremony, a sabotage attack on France's high-speed TGV rail network caused widespread travel chaos, highlighting the security challenges during this globally watched event. The opening show depicted a fictional mishap with the Olympic flame's arrival, setting the tone for an extravagant river show.
Zidane and the Olympic Flame: A Dash Across Paris
French soccer legend Zinedine Zidane featured in a pre-recorded video, running across Paris with the Olympic flame, even boarding the metro. This segment, blending reality with cinematic flair, captivated viewers and underscored the spirit of the Games.
Iconic French Performances: Moulin Rouge and Aya Nakamura
The ceremony continued with a postcard-like depiction of France, featuring a cancan performance by Moulin Rouge dancers on the riverbanks. Later, French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura, accompanied by the French army choir, delivered a modern portrayal of France, singing her hits and a beloved Charles Aznavour classic. Nakamura's performance sparked a debate on French identity but received some of the loudest applause of the night.
Rain and Rumors: Unwavering Enthusiasm Despite Weather
Rain couldn't dampen the spirits of the spectators, including Flavia Merluzzi, a 20-year-old architecture student, who remained undeterred. Rumors swirled about a potential appearance by Canadian singer Celine Dion, adding to the excitement.
Secret Details and Dramatic Torch Relay
The ceremony featured additional recorded footage, including sounds of restoration work on Notre-Dame post-2019 fire. Many details, such as the final torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, were kept under wraps. The torchbearer's concealed identity and dramatic rooftop jumps added an element of mystery.
Unveiling the Medals: Honors by Phelps and Fourcade
Michael Phelps and Martin Fourcade, the most decorated athletes in Olympic history, revealed the gold, silver, and bronze medals, marking a significant moment in the ceremony.
Massive Security Operation: Ensuring Safety in Paris
The opening ceremony saw an extensive security operation, with 45,000 police and thousands of soldiers deployed. Armed police patrolled the river, snipers were stationed on rooftops, and the Seine's riverbed was thoroughly inspected. Paris' airspace was closed, with radar-surveillance planes, drones, and fighter jets on standby.
A Global Stage Amidst Tension: International Context
The Games' backdrop included ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, necessitating heightened security. Israeli athletes received round-the-clock protection, reflecting the complex international situation. World leaders gathered in Paris, contributing to the event's significance.
Macron's Olympic Legacy: A Critical Moment
French President Emmanuel Macron, seeking to cement his legacy through the Olympics, faced challenges after a failed legislative election. Nevertheless, the event represented a pivotal moment for his presidency on the global stage.
The Games Begin: A Century in the Making
With over 10,500 athletes competing, Paris hosted the Olympics 100 years after last staging the Games. Competitions had already started, with the first gold medal to be awarded on Saturday. The event promised a memorable closing ceremony on August 11, celebrating the spirit of sport and unity.
Conclusion: A Grand Spectacle on the Seine
The Paris Olympics opening ceremony, highlighted by Lady Gaga's performance and a unique parade on the Seine, set a high bar for the Games. Amidst tight security and international tensions, the event showcased Paris' cultural richness and resilience, promising a memorable Olympic experience for athletes and spectators alike.