'Unique' opening ceremony to raise curtain on Games

Simplicity the key

The opening ceremony will be in keeping with Beijing's efforts to stage "simple, safe and splendid" Games.

The number of performers has been cut from 15,000 in 2008 to 3,000; the ceremony will last less than 100 minutes due to the cold weather and the pandemic.

However, the quality will not be affected by the reduction in quantity.

"Being simple, just as in martial arts films, is like a master's sword," Zhang said. "All his spirit is focused on the tip of the sword, and the power of his stab is different. It looks like a very simple stab, but with fateful power."

One of the most anticipated parts of the opening ceremony is the lighting of the main cauldron. Zhang said his team has come up with "a bold idea" for this element of the show.

"This time, the lighting method will certainly be different," he said. "It's a major reform of the opening ceremony. It will be unprecedented in the 100-year-plus history of the Olympic Games."

Zhang hinted that the design was in line with the concept of environmental protection and low-carbon emissions.

"I think it's totally innovative, and people will be surprised," he added.

For the people

Zhang said the public's participation is "a major goal" of hosting the Games and, therefore, is also important for the opening ceremony.

"Not just athletes and professionals winning gold medals and achieving amazing things, but getting more people to participate in sports," he said. "It's always about the people."

In the seven years since Beijing's successful bid, China has fulfilled its promise to engage 300 million people in winter sports.

The opening ceremony will also be characterized by diversity, with some performers coming from schools and grassroots arts groups.

"I think the expressions of happiness, health, spirit, self-confidence and inspiration are very important," Zhang said. "We also emphasize participation in many ways this time."

Zhang said the pandemic has brought about changes in the world, with China facing a new and complicated international situation. That's why he hoped to present the genuine thoughts and feelings of the Chinese people on the Olympic stage.

"What the Winter Olympics show is the Chinese people's confidence, pride, love and affection for the people of the world," Zhang said.

"If we can showcase that in an artistic, emotional and subtle way through the opening ceremony, people can see the real inner thoughts of Chinese people. That will be very meaningful."

CHINA DAILY - XINHUA