Beijing’s tech-infused Olympic show to debut at PyeongChang 2018

[File photo: opening ceremony of Beijing Olympics]

A decade after the exquisite opening ceremony of Beijing Olympics intoxicated global audiences with ancient Chinese culture, China will once again stun the world with a high-tech show demonstrating the country’s advanced technologies and full-fledged modernity.

The eight-minute show, which will be held at the closing ceremony of PyeongChang 2018, is expected to demonstrate a confident and modern China as well as convey the country’s warm welcome in a high-tech way, according to the show’s chief director Zhang Yimou.

By tradition, Beijing, the host of the next winter Olympics, will be given a chance to provide a glimpse of what athletes and audiences can expect when the Games get underway in 2022 in China.

[File photo: opening ceremony of Beijing Olympics]

“Beijing’s eight-minute show will not only demonstrate a modern China, but also showcase China’s confidence to hold the Winter Games and provide a warm welcome for the whole world,” Zhang told Xinhua News Agency. He was also chief director of both the opening and closing ceremonies of Beijing 2008.

Zhang’s artwork during the Beijing Olympics kept global audiences in awe. The world witnessed the grandeur and magnificence of Chinese ancient culture as well as Chinese contributions to the world, everything from paper and printing to porcelain and the compass.

[File photo: opening ceremony of Beijing Olympics]

“Today’s China is different from 10 years ago. When we held the Olympics, we told the world about our 5,000 years of history. At PyeongChang 2018, we will reveal the new achievements of contemporary China rather than repeat the stories from long before,” added Zhang.

According to Zhang, both performers and high-tech equipment need to withstand the extreme temperatures. Currently, the performance team is rehearsing in a suburb of Beijing, and will head for South Korea on Feb. 16.