Here in the UK, we're all a bit apprehensive about London's Olympic Games opening ceremony ... I think we'll struggle to live up to China's ceremony last time around.
But, the UK has an Ace up its sleeve: Shakespeare!
It has been reported that the opening ceremony for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games has been inspired by Shakespeare's The Tempest because the play's narrative has "universal appeal".
Alongside this mammoth ceremony, the World Shakespeare Festival will be playing out, drawing together performances from all around the World.
I think it's fitting that William Shakespeare has become central to this event. It demonstrates that the Olympics are not just about the sport ... rather it represents an attitude (sporting, cultural or otherwise) to aspire to excellence.
In this respect, the Bard is perfect!
Comments
It will be interesting if the theme chosen is The Tempest, with resonances of the play about colonialism!
Of course then they might have to block out the broadcast in Arizona – since “The Tempest” is banned there. But, for me, if the opening is to be based on “The Tempest” I will make it a point to watch it! Sounds like fun!
Game on! (Henry V 1.1)