The cultural essence of France set to be captured in Olympics opening ceremony

A full moon rises behind the Olympic rings hanging from the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The opening ceremony for the Olympic Games takes place today (July 26, or Malaysian time, 1.30am, July 27). Photo: AP

In a luxurious hotel room on the 16th floor, overlooking the heart of Paris and the iconic Seine River, Thomas Jolly prepares for the grand spectacle that will inaugurate the Paris 2024 Olympics.

“I was overwhelmed at first. I wondered how I could create a show where everyone can feel represented as part of this great union,” admits Jolly, the actor and stage director who was tapped two years ago to helm the artistic direction of the opening and closing ceremonies.