Getting over the starting line
As sports fans across the globe cheer on their athletes at the Tokyo Olympics over the next couple of weeks and the medal hauls start to grow, I want to reflect on how it all began. Watching the opening ceremony was a chance to see how producers would pull off an epic, hybrid event on the world’s biggest stage. They faced similar challenges to everyone in the events industry right now, but on a global scale. Instead of 68,000 screaming fans, the stadium had just 950 people in the audience, along with a reduced number of athletes and performers. As event leaders, what can be learned from this three hour extravaganza?
Setting the right tone. The opening scene featured Arisa Tsubata, the Japanese boxer and healthcare worker running on a treadmill. Gradually, more athletes appeared, demonstrating that they were separated, but not alone. This summed up the balance producers had to strike between acknowledging the impact of the pandemic and creating a much needed feeling of hope and celebration. After remembering the millions lost to COVID 19, a shift to faster music and acrobatic dancers signaled a change of tone. The story of the athletes was told through a mix of projection mapping, film, dance and vocal performances. By adding pyrotechnics and fireworks, it created the excitement that was needed for the at-home audience.
Creative thinking. Production utilized a heavy dose of wide camera angle shots to create the illusion of an in-person audience. By using lighting techniques and covering the seats in different colors, it distracted those at-home from just focusing on empty seats.
The importance of film. Film was used beautifully in this ceremony, with brilliantly curated opening videos and historic clips to highlight the heartbreak and perseverance that often form part of the Olympic athlete’s journey. Combining this with the live performances made it effective for the hybrid audience, enhanced the storytelling and created an emotional connection.
The wow factor. One of the highlights was the use of drones to create the logo of this year’s games, which then transformed into a globe. Not only was this a creative and innovative use of technology, but it meant that Tokyo residents unable to get a seat inside could still see it. An amazing feat of technology for a hybrid audience.
The power of the finale. Tennis star Naomi Osaka lit the Olympic cauldron to mark the official start of the games. A traditional moment, but one which was performed creatively as the sun on top of ‘Mount Fuji’ onstage opened out like a flower to reveal the Olympic cauldron. The flame is also the first to be powered by hydrogen, so there was even a nod to the greener future for events that we are all working towards.
This year’s opening ceremony was unlike any other for athletes, volunteers, production teams and everyone involved. For all the challenges that still exist as we navigate a pandemic, the messages of solidarity and peace reminded us all that if we can get over this starting line together, we can reach the finish line too.
