The Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games got off to a dazzling start, with the city's skyline providing a magnificant backdrop.
The 27,000 people at Marina Bay were treated to a two-hour show that showcased Singapore's rich history and celebrated the cultural diversity of the country's indigenous people and the young Olympians, aged 14 to 18, who will compete in the Games' 26 events.
The inaugural competition is designed to be a stepping stone for young athletes striving to compete at the Summer Olympics. And while sport will be the main focus over the next two weeks, there is a simultaneous cultural and educational programme to teach the athletes from the 204 participating countries about Olympic values and global issues.
The show was tailored for the age group it was addressing and its messages ranged from fairness in competition to combating hunger and disease and promoting world peace. It also included 54 teen-oriented multimedia videos specifically produced for the opening ceremony.
The opening ceremony marked the first time Olympic athletes were brought into the event early and did not march behind flags of their country. Spectators were on their feet clapping and cheering when the competitors entered from both sides of the stage of the Marina Bay venue.
This was followed by a thunderous display of drumming, accompanied by myriad dancers of all ages.
At one point, a menacing monster that represented the inner fears and struggles of everyone in attendance cast an imposing shadow over the event.
More than 5,000 performers, including children from 47 Singapore schools, were involved in the ceremony.
Throughout the show, fireworks lit the sky. More than 2,000 were used and they were synchronised to the music and shot from the crowns of various buildings around Marina Bay.
Youth Olympic Games 2010 Opening Ceremony Highlights Video
The 27,000 people at Marina Bay were treated to a two-hour show that showcased Singapore's rich history and celebrated the cultural diversity of the country's indigenous people and the young Olympians, aged 14 to 18, who will compete in the Games' 26 events.
The inaugural competition is designed to be a stepping stone for young athletes striving to compete at the Summer Olympics. And while sport will be the main focus over the next two weeks, there is a simultaneous cultural and educational programme to teach the athletes from the 204 participating countries about Olympic values and global issues.
"From this moment on, young people from around the world have a chance to participate in a global event that combines sport, education and culture," IOC president Jacques Rogge (BEL) said.
"Throughout this programme, our young Olympians will take part in activities and discussions on global and social issues as well as learn how they can make a positive impact in their community," said Singapore president S R Nathan.
The show was tailored for the age group it was addressing and its messages ranged from fairness in competition to combating hunger and disease and promoting world peace. It also included 54 teen-oriented multimedia videos specifically produced for the opening ceremony.
The opening ceremony marked the first time Olympic athletes were brought into the event early and did not march behind flags of their country. Spectators were on their feet clapping and cheering when the competitors entered from both sides of the stage of the Marina Bay venue.
This was followed by a thunderous display of drumming, accompanied by myriad dancers of all ages.
At one point, a menacing monster that represented the inner fears and struggles of everyone in attendance cast an imposing shadow over the event.
More than 5,000 performers, including children from 47 Singapore schools, were involved in the ceremony.
Throughout the show, fireworks lit the sky. More than 2,000 were used and they were synchronised to the music and shot from the crowns of various buildings around Marina Bay.
Youth Olympic Games 2010 Opening Ceremony Highlights Video
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