A Stunning Finale to the Paris 2024 Olympics
As the curtain falls on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the world is set for an unforgettable closing ceremony happening tonight, the 11th of August. Tom Cruise is expected to perform an exhilarating stunt on the roof of the Stade de France, symbolizing not only the conclusion of the Games but also the ceremonial transfer of the historic Antwerp flag from Paris to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Summer Games.
A Unified Celebration Across the Atlantic
Directed by artistic mastermind Thomas Jolly, the closing ceremony will unite France and the United States in a shared celebration of humanity. This event promises a dynamic fusion of live performances and video segments captured on both sides of the Atlantic. Like the opening ceremony, it will be another cinematic spectacle that will captivate our senses. The soundtrack will feature iconic French bands Air and Phoenix, along with surprise performances by American superstars like Billie Eilish, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Snoop Dogg, and Filipino-American artist H.E.R. Their performances will include a mix of live and pre-recorded segments, with a special LA-themed musical section as a nod to the upcoming Games in Los Angeles.
The Golden Traveler: A Vision of the Future
Central to the performance is “The Golden Traveler,” a character brought to life by French breakdancer and circus performer Arthur Cadre. Draped in a dazzling gold costume designed by Swiss creator Kevin Germanier, the Golden Traveler embarks on a dystopian journey through the ruins of the Olympic Games in a distant future, echoing the revival of the Games by Pierre de Coubertin in the late 1800s. The performance will feature 110 artists, including dancers, acrobats, and gymnasts from across Europe and Africa, with the Paris firefighters’ gymnastics team leading the charge. High-altitude aerial sequences, choreographed by Kevin Vivès, will add an extra layer of excitement to the spectacle.
A Sustainable and Futuristic Aesthetic
Reflecting modern concerns for sustainability, the costumes for this “grand futuristic tableau” are crafted entirely from recycled materials, with the stars’ outfits designed by luxury brand Dior. The color scheme focuses on gold and black, symbolizing both the opulence and dystopian themes of the production. Music will play a key role, with live accompaniment from the Divertimento symphony orchestra and the Fontainebleau children’s choir, enhancing the emotional journey of the Golden Traveler as he rekindles the Olympic spirit of competition and unity.
Rehearsals Under the Night Sky
To bring this intricate and visually striking production to life, the entire cast has been rehearsing at night at the Stade de France. This schedule was chosen to avoid disrupting athletic events and to allow performers to perfect their routines in the final week before the ceremony.
One Last Celebration
The closing ceremony, though shorter than the grand opening, is packed with unforgettable moments. It will begin with the athletes’ parade and a final medal ceremony, paying tribute to the women’s marathon and marking the first gender-equal Olympic Games in history. The 45,000 volunteers crucial to the success of the Games will also be honored during the ceremony. Nine thousand athletes will take one last lap around the Stade de France track to bid farewell to the Games, joined by the 205 flag bearers of the participating Olympic delegations.
“Records”: A Dreamlike Journey Through Humanity
The second part of the ceremony will focus on art, culture, and entertainment, with a segment titled “Records” envisioned by Thomas Jolly and his team. This segment draws inspiration from Greek antiquity and the Olympic spirit, taking the audience on a dreamlike journey through the foundations of humanity. It pays homage to the creation of the Olympic Games and their modern revival. Spectators will follow the Golden Traveler as he encounters metaphorical symbols that have shaped the Games and the values of unity and peace they represent. This grand tableau will feature 270 artists and performers, including Air and Phoenix.
Destination: Los Angeles 2028
The final chapter of the evening will be dedicated to the handover between the Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028 organizing committees. Los Angeles will offer a 15-minute preview of what’s to come in four years, showcasing the city’s unique blend of sports, culture, and creativity. The ceremony will reach its emotional peak with the extinguishing of the Olympic flame at around 11:30 p.m., accompanied by Yseult’s poignant performance of “My Way,” symbolizing the strong connection between France and the United States.
A Global Farewell
As the 33rd edition of the modern Olympic Games comes to an end, celebrations will take place at 113 sites across France. This closing ceremony is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come together and celebrate the Olympic values of sport and camaraderie. Although the Paris 2024 Games have ended, the excitement continues with the Paralympic Games, beginning on August 28th.
With the final words, “We did it our way,” the curtain will fall on what has been an extraordinary celebration of global unity and athletic excellence. But the story of the Olympics continues, as the world looks forward to Los Angeles 2028.
