On July 26, the Opening Ceremony for the 33rd Olympic Games officially kicked off the competition in Paris. The ceremony took place on the Seine River, with athletes entering by boat and live performances taking place along the riverbanks in addition to pre-taped acts.
The Olympic torch was carried through the city by a masked individual, who first received the light while on a boat floating through the underbelly of Paris. The pre-taped scene appeared to be an homage to “The Phantom of the Opera,” which is famously set in Paris.
The show continued on, mixing musical styles with performances by Lady Gaga, can-can dancers from the Moulin Rouge and more. One performances included an excerpt from “Les Misérables.” Take a look in the video.
Paris' opening display sent the message that art and sport will be celebrated over the next few weeks. The quadrennial international sports competition will continue through Aug. 11.
