Opening/Closing Ceremonies Discussion

[mr.x]

Top-secret test for B.C. Place ceremonies

By BOB MACKIN, 24 HOURS

Giant images of flames were projected on the inside of B.C. Place Stadium's roof Thursday night in a top-secret test for producers of the 2010 Winter Olympics opening and closing ceremonies.

The closed session was so hush-hush that B.C. Place employees were told no cameras, tours or even peeks were allowed.

Humidity, air pressure and temperature were monitored while lasers, computer graphics and smoke machines were tested. A source told 24 hours that the building was full of smoke by the time the session ended late Thursday night. The source said images of flames were at least a couple hundred feet and projected from different angles. An animated octopus was shown swimming on the roof, as were images of Olympic athletes.

Friday night's session was canceled after crews decided they were satisfied with Thursday's results. More than 30 people from several local and foreign lighting, sound, special effects and rigging companies were on an attendees' list. The list included three people from Britain's Creative Technology, which provided imaging for the giant digital scroll that served as the focal point of the Beijing Olympics' opening ceremony.

Ceremonies executive producer David Atkins told 24 hours in February that the air-supported fabric roof would play a key role as a screen for large-scale images. He wouldn't comment on whether a giant image of the Olympic flame would solve a dilemma facing VANOC.

B.C. Place will be the first indoor opening ceremony venue in Olympic history.

[deasine]

Sounds exciting already.

[ravman]

next time... if i had KNOWN about this before the event then i would have gone.... hmmm next time.... and ill have better quality pics.... the ones that i have seen are a sucky camera phone type

[Yume-sama]

Sounds interesting. Wonder what the octopus is supposed to be :P

[mr.x]

Well, if the imagery projection company is from the same company that did Beijing's, they better fix a few things first so that this doesn't happen at BC Place :D
http://blogs.pcworld.com/staffblog/archives/olympic-sized-blue-screen-of-death.jpg


We didn't see it on tv, but it would be quite noticeable if it's on the entire BC Place roof. :p

haha, kidding.

[crazyjoeda]

They should use a mac.

[Denscity]

I hear that.

[cornholio]

Well, if the imagery projection company is from the same company that did Beijing's, they better fix a few things first so that this doesn't happen at BC Place :D
http://blogs.pcworld.com/staffblog/archives/olympic-sized-blue-screen-of-death.jpg


We didn't see it on tv, but it would be quite noticeable if it's on the entire BC Place roof. :p

haha, kidding.

Wonder what Bill Gates though when he saw that since he was in attendance. Probably got a bit red in the face.

[jlousa]

Bill Gates probably laughed it off and blamed it on the fact it was a pirated version of Windows, and of course it wasn't the operating systems fault but some poorly coded application. :rolleyes:

Anyways I've been going over the SEFC master art plan today and came across some stuff that could hint at what's in store for the olympic flame. Here's a quote.

OLYMPIC COUNCIL FIRE
Making the connection between the ceremonial Olympic Torch as
symbol, and the council fire as a social gathering place, ties the
intent of the Olympic Games with the need for diverse communities
(nations) to come together. The Council Fire is sited along the
waterfront promenade and designed for a variety of programming
functions. The Olympic Council Fire is an element that provides
the lasting legacy of this historical event, creating an ongoing
dynamic community resource.
Because of concerns about safety and appropriate uses of the
Council Fire, placing the artwork as close to the Community Center
and possible is important. This gives the work the “eyes and ears”
it needs to be viable as a long-term social gathering space.
The fire “hearth” envisioned in the Art + Idea section of the plan
should be placed in closed proximity to the Community Center facility
(development 2A). VANOC representatives also spoke of the need for
some sort of containers or vessels in several locations to display the
Olympic flame. Placing sculptural works for the flame in the water might
also be explored.

http://www.4culture.org/publicart/registry/images/sites/corson/11_A/corson_20_SI.jpg

[SpongeG]

neat

i can hear the boat squatters now though

[Yume-sama]

They really, really, really need to make sure that wherever they put the Flame... it's off-limits and a lot better protected than that Olympic Countdown. It would be a National embarrassment to have some know-it-all protesters come and extinguish it (which I somehow see happening). Put it on top of the Harbour Center or something, making it like the Calgary Tower. :shrug: Or... have a shoot first ask later rule about anybody approaching the Flame :rolleyes: :haha:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/146/409981224_41a3f22f6c_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/j_/409981224/

[twoNeurons]

Bill Gates probably laughed it off and blamed it on the fact it was a pirated version of Windows, and of course it wasn't the operating systems fault but some poorly coded application. :rolleyes:

Anyways I've been going over the SEFC master art plan today and came across some stuff that could hint at what's in store for the olympic flame. Here's a quote.

OLYMPIC COUNCIL FIRE
Making the connection between the ceremonial Olympic Torch as
symbol, and the council fire as a social gathering place, ties the
intent of the Olympic Games with the need for diverse communities
(nations) to come together. The Council Fire is sited along the
waterfront promenade and designed for a variety of programming
functions. The Olympic Council Fire is an element that provides
the lasting legacy of this historical event, creating an ongoing
dynamic community resource.
Because of concerns about safety and appropriate uses of the
Council Fire, placing the artwork as close to the Community Center
and possible is important. This gives the work the “eyes and ears”
it needs to be viable as a long-term social gathering space.
The fire “hearth” envisioned in the Art + Idea section of the plan
should be placed in closed proximity to the Community Center facility
(development 2A). VANOC representatives also spoke of the need for
some sort of containers or vessels in several locations to display the
Olympic flame. Placing sculptural works for the flame in the water might
also be explored.

http://www.4culture.org/publicart/registry/images/sites/corson/11_A/corson_20_SI.jpg

A flame in the shape of 5 rings off the dock at science world...

[Delirium]

well this is unfortunate but i find it unreasonable for Cirque to assume that it would have creative control over the ceremonies. it's not their show -

Cirque takes hat out of the ring for 2010 ceremonies

FIONA MORROW

From Wednesday's Globe and Mail

September 17, 2008 at 3:43 AM EDT

VANCOUVER — Cirque du Soleil will not be part of the Vancouver 2010 opening or closing ceremonies despite high expectations that Canada's premier entertainment group would appear. A source close to the company blames tight control exerted over the creative process by VANOC and the IOC.

At one point, the Quebec company was in discussions with VANOC not simply to appear, but to be executive director of both ceremonies. Officially, both VANOC and Cirque cite the latter's commitments to private projects as the reason no deal was signed.

According to the Request for Expressions of Interest and Statements of Qualifications posted on VANOC's website, the successful applicant for the post of executive director of the ceremonies would work "in conjunction with and under the direction of VANOC."

Asked if Cirque du Soleil had wanted to direct the entire opening and closing ceremonies, public relations director Renée-Claude Ménard said: "Of course. That is the thing that Cirque does - we have creative control.

We work with partners and have them accompany us and endorse us, but you either [employ Cirque] to do it, or you don't."

David Atkins was appointed executive director of the ceremonies in September of 2007.

"We work with partners and have them accompany us and endorse us, but you either [employ Cirque] to do it, or you don't."

David Atkins was appointed executive director of the ceremonies in September of 2007. However, speculation continued that Cirque du Soleil would have some kind of role in the events.

In January of 2008, in an interview with The Globe and Mail, Mr. Atkins described the creative process and its relationship with both VANOC and the IOC.

"We get to the stage where we're happy with it. We then present it to VANOC," he said.

"VANOC then react to it as the board, usually in every one of those instances. They'll have concerns, we'll address those, represent again. When they feel as confident as we did, then they present it - and we present it with them - to the IOC and we get final sign-off on it.

"Since Torino, we now do two presentations to them and we have regular updates with them on a monthly basis, which was never the case before, so they've become much more engaged in the creative process."

VANOC's contribution to the closing ceremony of the Torino 2006 Winter Olympics was widely considered a flop. Cirque du Soleil, along with many other Canadian artists, was involved in that production.

Executive vice-president of celebrations and partnerships at VANOC, David Guscott, cautioned against drawing any conclusions regarding the IOC's increased participation since 2006.

He said he was disappointed that Cirque had withdrawn from consideration, but understood its reasons. "This is being the executive producer of an Olympic event," he said.

"It's a different kettle of fish from putting on a Las Vegas show."

[wrenegade]

^This is truly terrible news. I can't believe we are neglecting some of the best acrobats in the world and a Canadian icon. I think they should have just given Cirque control of the whole thing.

[WarrenC12]

I thought Cirque would be the perfect (and obvious) choice. :koko:

[jlousa]

I'll agree with Delirium on this one, if they are hired to do a show then they would need to do what is asked of them, it's not like it's their show.
It is sad, and hopefully a compromise could still be found, but if not then so be it.

[mr.x]

this is really unfortunate....but I do believe that the Cirque didn't even apply for being the creative team, as they already had too many shows going on around the world and their resources were stretched.

[johnjimbc]

Actually, from reading the company's statement, I can see why they won't be involved.

While I do think it is a loss, I just can't imagine how they ever expected they would run the entire creative process for the ceremonies. I love Cirque, but I think that was demanding way too much.

Sounds like their ego wouldn't fit in the arena. Too bad because I think they could have contributed a lot.

[SpongeG]

the radio says its because the IOC stepped in that they cannot be part of the games

[Delirium]

^ that doesn't sound right. Cirque was part of the closing ceremonies at torino so i can't see why it would be a problem.

from the article I posted above -

"VANOC's contribution to the closing ceremony of the Torino 2006 Winter Olympics was widely considered a flop. Cirque du Soleil, along with many other Canadian artists, was involved in that production."

He said he was disappointed that Cirque had withdrawn from consideration, but understood its reasons."

anyway, it's not like we can't have acrobatics in the show. it just won't be "cirque" acrobats. no biggie imo.

[SpongeG]

^ that doesn't sound right. Cirque was part of the closing ceremonies at torino so i can't see why it would be a problem.

from the article I posted above -

"VANOC's contribution to the closing ceremony of the Torino 2006 Winter Olympics was widely considered a flop. Cirque du Soleil, along with many other Canadian artists, was involved in that production."

He said he was disappointed that Cirque had withdrawn from consideration, but understood its reasons."

anyway, it's not like we can't have acrobatics in the show. it just won't be "cirque" acrobats. no biggie imo.

the radio came in with an update and said that the IOC was never involved that the Ciqrque was trying to make it look like it was an IOC thing

radio = 1410talk.... they were talking about it earlier

people were pissed to say the least

[zivan56]

I, for one, am quite happy that a group that has nothing to do with BC will not be performing during the opening ceremonies. Frankly, I find them quite creepy and not very representative of BC or even the Olympics. There should be local talent to showcase what is unique about Vancouver and the region...everyone in the world has probably seen these guys one time or another.

[mr.x]

I, for one, am quite happy that a group that has nothing to do with BC will not be performing during the opening ceremonies. Frankly, I find them quite creepy and not very representative of BC or even the Olympics. There should be local talent to showcase what is unique about Vancouver and the region...everyone in the world has probably seen these guys one time or another.

The ceremonies are suppose to represent the entire nation.....who do you suggest that we get from BC?

[jlousa]

Definitely the guy that walks along broadway everyday singing opera. He's actually really good.
And a couple of the downtown panhandlers, they tell the best stories ever. :tup:

[clooless]

And shopping carts. A couple hundred performers pushing shopping carts. Oh, and that lady that used to tell your fortune with her duck on Robson Street. She was great. They need her. Maybe she could light the torch.

[SpongeG]

haha i haven't seen her in ages

her duck would steal the show

[fever]

opera guy can really project his voice. i can hear him coming from a block or two away.

[zivan56]

The ceremonies are suppose to represent the entire nation.....who do you suggest that we get from BC?
And this is stated where? They are supposed to represent Olympic ideals, not postmodern contortionism.
Vanoc can figure that out...it's their job after all. It would probably include
first nations performers
local singers and talent
Opera guy if he is up for it :tup:

[mr.x]

I was watching the Global BC online report on the Cirque story.....it's amazing how easily they slap on "controversy" or "scandal" to everything.

[mr.x]

The new 2010 website is up....it's pretty good, easy to navigate, and easy on the eyes. It's a whole lot better than the mess that the Beijing and Torino websites were 16 months out.

It could use more colour though, too much white space.

[officedweller]

Looking back at the Torino closing production - you could see the Cirque influence - the stupid fisherman gazing around the audience - looking - looking - for what? There are usually these moments in Cirque shows that are suppposed to be interpretive (think clown with umbrella walking in circles) - but come across as boring. In a vast stadium, there has to be constant action.
If Cirque were given complete creative control - like they wanted - the ceremonies could have been a flop (in the name of "art").
VANOC can subcontract acrobatic performances during the ceremonies to Cirque.

[sacrifice333]

VANOC can subcontract acrobatic performances during the ceremonies to Cirque.

I think the point is that Cirque either wanted FULL control or NO involvement.

But there are certainly other acts that could do something just as good without the name behind them.

[jlousa]

David Atkins is in town and will be working tomorrow. ;)

[raggedy13]

Thought a thread on this specific topic might generate some interesting discussion/speculation (on top of all the past speculation spread throughout various threads).

Here is a new related article to get things going:

We’d love to tell you about the ceremonies, but, well, you know …
Details of opening and closing festivities are secret, but organizers vow they will make us proud

BY KEVIN GRIFFIN, CANWEST NEWS SERVICE
FEBRUARY 11, 2009

A year from today, about 3.5 billion people will be watching what’s going on in Vancouver.

Whether they’re at home staring at their flat screen TV, at the office in front of their desktop computer or in a restaurant sneaking a peek at their handheld, they’ll be looking at the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in BC Place.

The estimated worldwide audience for the opening ceremonies will dwarf anything in this country’s history. It’ll surpass by far the numbers who watched the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary and the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. In 1988, just 64 countries broadcast the Games; by Turin in 2006, the number had climbed to 200. And as a one-time event, there’s no saying ‘whoops, let’s try that again’.

These ceremonies have to deliver the kind of entertaining stories that satisfy both an international audience and a demanding Canadian one, too. Everyone at Vanoc realizes what’s at stake, says David Guscott, executive vice-president of celebrations and partnerships.

“We’ve struck out with the view of establishing Games that will resonate and make every Canadian proud,” he says. “For people beyond Canadian borders, we want them to be intrigued and curious and have a little better understanding of Canada and its story.

“I can tell you for those of us involved in it, that’s a daunting aspect. We don’t take lightly that responsibility.”

Vanoc has been working since last February to hone the vision for the ceremonies, says Guscott. Vanoc started with six symposiums with the country’s leading artists, performers, choreographers and cultural producers. The process was directed by David Atkins, the Australian entertainer and producer who was instrumental in creating the spectacular show for the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Atkins’ company was hired to produce the 2010 opening and closing ceremonies.

Some parts of the ceremonies are far from secret, mandated as they are by the International Olympic Committee. These elements include the entry of athletes, the raising of the Olympic flag and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron.

As for anything else — or anything more specific — Guscott was mum about details.

“You won’t get anything about the content of the ceremonies,” he says.

“What we want to do is to have people on the edge of their seats and watching what’s happening. We don’t want anyone to know who or what is involved, so they can be amazed as things unfold.”

But a concept has been developed, Guscott says, and Atkins and the ceremonies team will move into their “operational phase” during the next six months.

If past opening ceremonies are any indication, the 2010 show will include a cast of thousands, movie stars, pop singers and spectacular special effects.

Guscott predicts the $38-million opening and closing ceremonies will have a huge national impact.

“It’s a time when we can get Canadians thinking about and feeling proud of their country and proud of their locale in a way that hardly ever comes up,” he says. “What we do here is partly a sporting event, but it’s also an entertainment piece and a TV show.”

For the first time in Olympic history, both the opening and closing ceremonies will be held indoors.

On the positive side, that means the weather won’t play havoc with any plans for the show, Guscott says.

As well, indoor opening ceremonies in BC Place mean more athletes likely will attend. At previous Games, some athletes competing during the first few days of the Winter Games avoided the opening ceremonies because they were worried about getting sick from spending hours outdoors in sub-zero weather. Unlike the Summer Games, each athlete will have a seat inside BC Place to watch the opening ceremonies.

On a not-quite-so-positive note, hosting the Games indoors presents one big challenge to Vanoc: how to light the Olympic cauldron indoors. Guscott says we should be prepared for a surprise.

“The way we’re going to handle the elements I can’t talk to you about because it would give it away,” he says.

As for who will light the Olympic cauldron and how that person will be selected, well, that’s also under wraps.

“That will be one of the biggest surprises,” says Guscott.

“Our objective is for people to say, ‘Oh yeah, what a great choice.’ We have so many possibilities. We’ll be choosing among a very, very rich and deep field.”

© Copyright (c) Canwest News Service
Source: KEVIN GRIFFIN, CANWEST NEWS SERVICE (http://www.canada.com/Sports/love+tell+about+ceremonies+well+know/1278935/story.html)

[dreambrother808]

My guess for final torch bearer is Wayne Gretzky.

[Canadian Mind]

I wouldn't complain.

[ravman]

if anyone hears ANYTHING about ceremony like rehersal or something at the venue... post it or send me a PM and...;)

[metroXpress]

NEWS RELEASE!

Some artists are metioned in the 24hrs as the possible performer at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics!!Read LAST PARAGRAPH􀁏(left hand side on page 6) 􀁘

http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/PDF/2008/05/01/20090212.pdf


The article is on Page 6

(Sorry that I can't copy the text on the PDF file)

[mr.x]

NEWS RELEASE!

Some artists are metioned in the 24hrs as the possible performer at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics!!Read LAST PARAGRAPH􀁏(left hand side on page 6) 􀁘

http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/PDF/2008/05/01/20090212.pdf


The article is on Page 6

(Sorry that I can't copy the text on the PDF file)

No surprise....I fully expect Bryan Adams, Sarah Mclachlan, Diana Krall, and many others to be here....nearly every major Canadian artist will be here.

[LeftCoaster]

nearly every major Canadian artist will be here.

Really?! All 8 of them?!?

:D

[mr.x]

Really?! All 8 of them?!?

:D

All 8 or most of them...and then some.:D

[twoNeurons]

Plus all the ones that people think are American.

[mr.x]

Plus all the ones that people think are American.

Basically, all of them.

[metroXpress]

Plus all the ones that people think are American.

Ha...that's what a lot of people think.
They can never link them to Canadians....and all the great people
we have in our nation are considered Americans.


Can't wait to see them on stage! Go Michael Bublé...our local boy.

[nova9]

I would also guess that once people started being hired to be performers (the mass singers, mass dancers, etc) there are enough people to find a weakness in the wall to glean a secret or two.

[agrant]

My guess for final torch bearer is Wayne Gretzky.The Vancouver Canucks killer?

[mr.x]

I would also guess that once people started being hired to be performers (the mass singers, mass dancers, etc) there are enough people to find a weakness in the wall to glean a secret or two.

I read somewhere that 6 symposiums were conducted by David Atkins, and the call for opening/closing ceremony performance volunteers will go out in a few weeks.





“We’ve struck out with the view of establishing Games that will resonate and make every Canadian proud,” he says. “For people beyond Canadian borders, we want them to be intrigued and curious and have a little better understanding of Canada and its story.

Everytime I hear "Canada's story", I have a feeling that the opening ceremonies will literally be that. It'll be akin to "Australia's story" at the ceremonies at Sydney.

[Cypherus]

I just hope the Barenaked Ladies or Nickelback don't perform at the ceremony. Talk about being washed up, dried, and recycled.

[mr.x]

I just hope the Barenaked Ladies or Nickelback don't perform at the ceremony. Talk about being washed up, dried, and recycled.

I'd fully expect them at the nightly medal ceremonies.

[metroXpress]

I read somewhere that 6 symposiums were conducted by David Atkins, and the call for opening/closing ceremony performance volunteers will go out in a few weeks.




I read in the Metro Newspaper that we will know the performers
by the end of this month. That's the same as your few weeks :)

[dreambrother808]

I'd fully expect them at the nightly medal ceremonies.

hopefully no barenaked ladies even there. nickelback would do though. as much as i hate them, they are still hugely popular and some are vancouverites, no? originally albertan though, obviously... ;)

[Spork]

Oh god PLEASE no nickelback... http://megaswf.com/view/ae5be0fc5f3cc7b1ca122edffe6489b1.html

[metroXpress]

hopefully no barenaked ladies even there. nickelback would do though. as much as i hate them, they are still hugely popular and some are vancouverites, no? originally albertan though, obviously... ;)

Some Vancouver locals/ BC Natives would do....

Michael Bublé, Sarah McLachlan, Nelly Furtado, and David Foster writing the songs.

[mr.x]

hopefully no barenaked ladies even there. nickelback would do though. as much as i hate them, they are still hugely popular and some are vancouverites, no? originally albertan though, obviously... ;)

Please....no Nickelback, complete asses.

[SpongeG]

the bare naked ladies did one of the medal nights in salt lake city

[mr.x]

I'm happy that I got a few tickets to two nightly-medal ceremonies events at BC Place....didn't get the opening nor the closing.

And BC Place might look like a piece of junk right now, but it's by far the largest Olympic Stadium in Winter Games history and largest medal ceremonies venue by far in history as well. The venues at previous Games pale in comparison.

Rice Eccles seats something like 40,000 and the medals plaza, 10,000.

In Torino, the stadium there sat 35,000 and the medals plaza, 8,000.

BC Place: 55,000 for opening/closing and 30,000 for nightly medals.

[dreambrother808]

Please....no Nickelback, complete asses.

To you and to me, yes, but to a great many other people, no. They sell ridiculous amounts of records. These are public events and so they should be geared to everyone's tastes.

That being said, they are not up to the level of class required for opening ceremonies material. Just ok for a medal celebration.

[mr.x]

To you and to me, yes, but to a great many other people, no. They sell ridiculous amounts of records. These are public events and so they should be geared to everyone's tastes.

That being said, they are not up to the level of class required for opening ceremonies material. Just ok for a medal celebration.

I guess you have a point, I would love to see Celine Dion:haha: .....there are 12 nightly medal ceremonies, I have tickets to two of them. I just hope I don't end up with Nickelback on one of them.

[Kodii]

I have tickets to two of them. I just hope I don't end up with Nickelback on one of them.
Be happy that you even HAVE the tickets. I would be happy to take the tickets, even if Nickelback is playing :haha:

[mr.x]

Be happy that you even HAVE the tickets. I would be happy to take the tickets, even if Nickelback is playing :haha:

I'd love to see your reaction, because this is what I have:
- 3 tickets: Feb. 14 Victory Ceremony BC Place
- 2 tickets: Feb. 18 Men's Ice Hockey at GM Place, recently confirmed as Canada vs. Switzerland
- 2 tickets: Feb. 23 Victory Ceremony BC Place
- 2 tickets: Feb. 28 Cross-Country Skiing Men 50-km Men's Mass Start Whistler Olympic Park


On the bright side, 10% of the tickets haven't been sold and will be released in May...first come, first serve (unfortunately, through their terrible online ticket broker). Hopefully, I can score some opening or closing tickets, luge or ski jumping, something at Cypress, a figure skating event, and speed skating.

[SpongeG]

you have to pay to see the medals?

isn't it usually free?

[mr.x]

you have to pay to see the medals?

isn't it usually free?

There are 30,000 seats to the medal ceremonies, making it by far the biggest medal ceremonies venue ever at more than three times the size of Salt Lake and Torino's venues each with about 8,000-10,000 which were all free.

20,000 of those tickets are at $22; 10,000 will be free, which basically equates it with SLC and Torino. I would think that the 10,000 are the crappy seats.

[SpongeG]

ah

[Kodii]

I'd love to see your reaction
Well, I've been so pissed for a while that I don't even really care much anymore. I've given up looking to participate in the Games that I'm not even sure if I'm going to try to get tickets anymore. Who would imagine that more than an entire class of UBC students, who have two weeks off for the Games and are ripe for volunteering, would be completely ignored?

[mr.x]

Well, I've been so pissed for a while that I don't even really care much anymore. I've given up looking to participate in the Games that I'm not even sure if I'm going to try to get tickets anymore. Who would imagine that more than an entire class of UBC students, who have two weeks off for the Games and are ripe for volunteering, would be completely ignored?

That really sucks.....and you didn't make it as a volunteer? wow.

They phoned me for a phone interview, but I wasn't home and a few weeks ago they told me to register for a volunteer session at PNE....I should probably confirm with them if I don't need to go through with a phone interview.

[metroXpress]

That really sucks.....and you didn't make it as a volunteer? wow.

They phoned me for a phone interview, but I wasn't home and a few weeks ago they told me to register for a volunteer session at PNE....I should probably confirm with them if I don't need to go through with a phone interview.


So you are volunteering eh? I wonder if all the Metro Vancouver School
Districts will close their schools....but it seems like there is no point
closing schools in Burnaby, Delta, Surrey..etc.

[mr.x]

So you are volunteering eh? I wonder if all the Metro Vancouver School
Districts will close their schools....but it seems like there is no point
closing schools in Burnaby, Delta, Surrey..etc.

Yea, highly unlikely other municipalities will close their schools.....of course, all of the colleges and universities should be closed, and Vancouver, Richmond, Whistler, and Squamish school districts.

[SpongeG]

why? its just an event why should the students at uni disrupt their lives and probably have to extend the shcool year a couple weeks and than miss out summer jobs?

[metroXpress]

why? its just an event why should the students at uni disrupt their lives and probably have to extend the shcool year a couple weeks and than miss out summer jobs?


Some people rather have breaks at that time to watch the games.
It's no big deal...they can just move the Spring Break earlier
to that time. This is an opinion thing so believe what you like.

[djun]

That really sucks.....and you didn't make it as a volunteer? wow.

They phoned me for a phone interview, but I wasn't home and a few weeks ago they told me to register for a volunteer session at PNE....I should probably confirm with them if I don't need to go through with a phone interview.

X2--I am one of many volunteer interviewers at the Uniform and Accreditation Centre at the PNE, and I can confirm that you don't need to go through a phone screen interview (unless you've been placed in a specialised area), so you should sign up for your training session and come in as soon as possible!

[mr.x]

X2--I am one of many volunteer interviewers at the Uniform and Accreditation Centre at the PNE, and I can confirm that you don't need to go through a phone screen interview (unless you've been placed in a specialised area), so you should sign up for your training session and come in as soon as possible!

Thanks for the heads up and the confirmation! I signed up for an afternoon session on March 1st a few weeks ago when they sent me that email.

Is there anything else I have to bring? A resume? A criminal records check? I recall having to do one to volunteer for the 2006 World Junior Hockey Champs.

[Kodii]

I didn't make it as a volunteer not because I didn't try, but because I am TWO FREAKING MONTHS too young to volunteer. And from what I know, we are only getting a one week winter break, so it won't be cutting out of the summer, so no one will be losing summer jobs.

A little bit back on topic, I hear that they are going to open up the volunteer positions available for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Anybody know whether the age restriction is going to apply here as well?

[metroXpress]

I didn't make it as a volunteer not because I didn't try, but because I am TWO FREAKING MONTHS too young to volunteer. And from what I know, we are only getting a one week winter break, so it won't be cutting out of the summer, so no one will be losing summer jobs.

A little bit back on topic, I hear that they are going to open up the volunteer positions available for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Anybody know whether the age restriction is going to apply here as well?


I know that the age restriction is going to apply to those position.
Try the youth one then? I think you need a team of 10 or something.
So are you 15 currently??

[djun]

Bring ID, such as driver's license or passport. No need to bring a resume, not enough time anyway, since one-on-one interview is only 20min anyway. And bring the RCMP security check form, but if you forget, not a big deal since you can fill it out again on-site. Just remember to bring your ID or you don't get to go on to your training!

[metroXpress]

:previous: IDs are so important nowadays....

[Kodii]

So are you 15 currently??
Try 18.

I already looked into the Youth option. I don't live in the Sea-to-Sky corridor.

[djun]

Recruitment for ceremonies has not begun yet, as far as I know, but will be soon. It'll be most likely through David Atkins Enterprise, since they're in charge.

Assume that there will still be a security check. That is done through the RCMP Integrated Security Unit (ISU), so they set the terms.

There will be an option for youth's living in Vancouver this summer soon--just keep checking for updates.

[Canadian Mind]

scratch that, just read above.

meh, still 2 months younger than me... unless he is a december 1990 beby, makign him a year younger.

[mr.x]

I didn't make it as a volunteer not because I didn't try, but because I am TWO FREAKING MONTHS too young to volunteer. And from what I know, we are only getting a one week winter break, so it won't be cutting out of the summer, so no one will be losing summer jobs.

A little bit back on topic, I hear that they are going to open up the volunteer positions available for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Anybody know whether the age restriction is going to apply here as well?

Yea, I have a few other friends that have the same problem....I believe they were short a few weeks as well.

I don't understand why it's 19 at such an early date, rather than 18.

[mr.x]

Bring ID, such as driver's license or passport. No need to bring a resume, not enough time anyway, since one-on-one interview is only 20min anyway. And bring the RCMP security check form, but if you forget, not a big deal since you can fill it out again on-site. Just remember to bring your ID or you don't get to go on to your training!

Thanks for the heads up! I really appreciate it!


Recruitment for ceremonies has not begun yet, as far as I know, but will be soon. It'll be most likely through David Atkins Enterprise, since they're in charge.

Assume that there will still be a security check. That is done through the RCMP Integrated Security Unit (ISU), so they set the terms.

There will be an option for youth's living in Vancouver this summer soon--just keep checking for updates.

Yea, there should be a security check for that....or for everyone for that matter....if I remember correctly, the casino guy who broke one of the mics at the Torino closing ceremony was actually a volunteer. In 2010, an APC member wanting to stir shit is much more likely.

You guys are going to need something like 12,000 performers. Is there enough local talent for that?

[metroXpress]

scratch that, just read above.

meh, still 2 months younger than me... unless he is a december 1990 beby, makign him a year younger.

According to djun and kodii himself....

He is close to 18 at the moment
So, you have to be 15-18 in order to be in the youth group
and the other adult volunteers are 19+, am I correct?

Fine...I am not saying anything...

[djun]

According to djun and kodii himself....

He is close to 18 at the moment
So, you have to be 15-18 in order to be in the youth group
and the other adult volunteers are 19+, am I correct?

Each team should have:

* 10 people aged between 15 and 19 years old (born between September 2, 1989 and December 31, 1994) with secured accommodation in the Sea to Sky corridor
* One adult supervisor over 19 years old (born before September 1, 1989)

[metroXpress]

Try 18.

I already looked into the Youth option. I don't live in the Sea-to-Sky corridor.

Why can't they open up some Youth options in Vancouver rather
than seeking for people that live in the Sea-to-Sky corridor??

Each team should have:

* 10 people aged between 15 and 19 years old (born between September 2, 1989 and December 31, 1994) with secured accommodation in the Sea to Sky corridor
* One adult supervisor over 19 years old (born before September 1, 1989)

Thanks...and I hope you stay...because we need you around for all these info.

[mr.x]

Why can't they open up some Youth options in Vancouver rather
than seeking for people that live in the Sea-to-Sky corridor??

I think it has to do with the lack of populace in the Sea-to-Sky corridor, yet they will need a ton of volunteers and they can't find enough accommodation for out of town volunteers. So, they're willing to lower the age requirement of residents living in the corridor.

Just a theory.

[Kodii]

Because they have neglected a huge volunteer demographic? I'm looking to start up an initiative at UBC for others my age, but I have no idea where to even begin. I've sent e-mails left, right and centre looking for information, and even approached people at the Student Olympic Conference without any success, which is frustrating me even more.

On the bright side, Kesler just scored and makes the Canucks game 4-1 against the Canadiens.

[metroXpress]

I think it has to do with the lack of populace in the Sea-to-Sky corridor, yet they will need a ton of volunteers and they can't find enough accommodation for out of town volunteers. So, they're willing to lower the age requirement of residents living in the corridor.

Just a theory.



Oh...your theory are always logical and acceptable. Love to hear answers from you :banana:

[metroXpress]

Because they have neglected a huge volunteer demographic? I'm looking to start up an initiative at UBC for others my age, but I have no idea where to even begin. I've sent e-mails left, right and centre looking for information, and even approached people at the Student Olympic Conference without any success, which is frustrating me even more.

On the bright side, Kesler just scored and makes the Canucks game 4-1 against the Canadiens.


Canucks are doing tres bien these last games. So is this one the 5th win
in the row??

PS- you'll have to wait till Vancouver host the next Olympics (not possible though...according to the discussion we had, right MrX2?)

[Kodii]

Canucks are doing tres bien these last games. So is this one the 5th win
in the row??

PS- you'll have to wait till Vancouver host the next Olympics (not possible though...according to the discussion we had, right MrX2?)
No, we lost the last game against Dallas.

And I'm still praying that Seattle-Vancouver can pull off something big.

[mr.x]

PS- you'll have to wait till Vancouver host the next Olympics (not possible though...according to the discussion we had, right MrX2?)

lol, our best shot is either the 2014/2018/2022 hosts defaulting just like Denver in 1976....or we bid again in the 2030s....OR we host the Summer Games when most of us are well past our prime, in the 2050s.

[djun]

Well turns out that some of my information might be old and misleading. I had previously thought that you needed to have been born by Sept 1 1989--apparently that has changed to Sept 1 1990. I don't know if you were aware, but I wasn't, despite interviewing for 5 months now!

So to clarify, you must be 19 by Sept 1 2009 (this year) in order to volunteer for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Hope that helps!

[metroXpress]

Well turns out that some of my information might be old and misleading. I had previously thought that you needed to have been born by Sept 1 1989--apparently that has changed to Sept 1 1990. I don't know if you were aware, but I wasn't, despite interviewing for 5 months now!

So to clarify, you must be 19 by Sept 1 2009 (this year) in order to volunteer for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Hope that helps!


Good to see you back to clarify that!

[Overground]

Harper is in London now for the G20 Summit and NATO meeting in France later in the week. Tomorrow, Harper will be making a customary visit to the Queen as her First Minister usually does. Lloyd Robertson said on the news tonight that Harper will formally be inviting HM to Canada next year.

Considering the Olympics is a significant event next year, hopefully her visit will be for the Opening Ceremonies. Perhaps more news on it tomorrow.

[mr.x]

^ hmmm, i'd rather have Michaelle Jean do the honours....it would simply be cool to show off to the world our relatively attractive [and African] head of state.

And besides, HM is doing London as well...

[mr.x]

Queen planning another royal visit to Canada, officials say

30 minutes ago

LONDON — The Queen is planning another visit to Canada.

Her Royal Highness hosted a lunch today for Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and their wives at Buckingham Palace. Afterwards, Canadian officials said she would be making her 24th official visit to Canada sometime this year or next.

No details were provided.

The Queen, who turns 83 later this month, was last in Canada in 2005, when she and Prince Phillip visited Saskatchewan and Alberta for their provincial centennials.

Harper is in London for the Group of 20 economic summit.

Copyright © 2009 The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

[djmk]

:previous:

i just want to know one thing.

where the heck is prince charles. as our next head of state he should make more of an effort to be here with his subjects.





(i'm joking)

[djun]

Speaking of royalty, I believe Prince Edward, Earl of Sussex will be here in Vancouver, Victoria early June this year.

And since this is the ceremonies thread, I'll add that a couple representatives from Ceremonies will be here at UBC tomorrow 2:30-7 in a residence (which residence I don't know--probably Gage cause that's the biggest/most central?:shrug:). So if you're interested in performing, but unsure and/or have questions, tomorrow would be a perfect chance to get your questions answered!

Lastly, Phase 2 of tickets go on sale Saturday June 6, 2009 at 10am.

[Overground]

^Prince Andrew will also be in Canada from 23 April this month. The Princess Louise Fusiliers in Halifax will be trooping the colour for him as their Colonel-in-Chief.

In regards to the opening ceremonies, I don't think HM will be doing it unfortunately. The main reason for the visit may be for the celebration of the Navy's centennial in 2010, which would great.

[touraccuracy]

Nickelback better have nothing to do with any Olympic event..............

[metroXpress]

Nickelback better have nothing to do with any Olympic event..............

Bruce Allen is on the team so we should expect people like
Bryan Adams or Michael Bublé..

[mr.x]

VANOC adds top creative talent to team orchestrating the magic of the Opening, Closing and nightly Victory Ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games; volunteer performers still needed

Apr 7, 2009

Vancouver, BC – As recruitment of volunteer performers continues, the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) is ramping up the creative team behind the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games Opening, Closing and nightly Victory Ceremonies by adding superlative Canadian and international stars to the mix. The team includes the Canadian brothers behind Dsquared2 who have created lavish, over-the-top costumes for Madonna and Britney Spears, a composer fit for the Queen and the sound designer who has mixed for both The King of Rock `n’ Roll and The Boss.

They are just a few of the standouts among the 17 members — the majority of whom are Canadian – announced today by VANOC. A list, including short biographies, follows.

Under the direction of executive producer and co-artistic director David Atkins and Ignatius Jones, director, ceremonies strategy and co-artistic director, the creative team will deliver on the creative vision for the ceremonies, create mass choreography for the 4,500 volunteer performers, design lighting and audio systems, select composers and musical arrangements, design sets, costumes and props, and identify headline talent. The team will also be responsible for the nightly Victory Ceremonies happening at BC Place, where top Canadian musical acts will rev up athletes and spectators. Their work will build on the planning started in 2007 by the initial creative team.

“The expectations for David Atkins and the ceremonies’ creative team are monumental. They are tasked with creating life long memories — from the iconic Opening and Closing Ceremonies to those golden moments that celebrate the athletes’ achievements,” said John Furlong, VANOC Chief Executive Officer. “Their work will be watched live by thousands at BC Place and billions worldwide on television — and this team has both the talent and experience to meet that challenge. They will embrace our country’s rich culture and innovative spirit, while revealing our incredible wealth of Canadian talent to the world.”

“For the last 12 months, our creative process for the ceremonies has been underway but as we move from the concept stage to the hands-on work, we’ve sought out exceptionally talented people who know how to take big ideas and breathe life into them,” added David Guscott, executive vice president, ceremonies and celebrations. “As we get closer to the Games, the team will be expanded even further.”

David Atkins acknowledged the calibre of the creative team, saying, “This world-class team is filled with artists who know how to wow audiences at international events and are leaders in their fields, from creating magical scores to designing opulent costumes and intricate footwork. Ceremonies volunteers are going to be working with the best; this is a true opportunity of a lifetime.”

Atkins pointed out that volunteer ceremonies applications are still being sought and he encouraged enthusiastic potential performers to apply online at www.vancouver2010.com/ceremonies. Previous experience is not a requirement for the performers, dancers and athletes of all types and skills needed to stage the productions. Volunteer performers must be 17 or older to apply; there is no upper age limit. Auditions start May 1.

“I’m proud that the Government of Canada is supporting the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games,” said the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport). “The Opening Ceremony offers a unique opportunity to showcase Canadian excellence and innovation to the world, while celebrating our culture and traditions.”

The ceremonies’ creative team members announced today are:

Choreography Director: Jean Grand-Maître

Quebec-born Jean Grand-Maître has been artistic director of Alberta Ballet since 2002. He has collaborated with dance companies around the world, as well as acrobats and circus performers for musicals, operas, television, film and large outdoor events. He lives in Calgary, Alberta.

Design Director: Douglas Paraschuk

Over the last three decades, Douglas Paraschuk of Stratford, Ontario has designed over 100 regional theatre productions across Canada, including spending 21 seasons with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. In 2006, Paraschuk was part of the ceremonies design team for the 15th Asian Games in Doha, Qatar.

Music Director: Dave Pierce

David Pierce’s extensive credits include musical theatre, sporting and cultural events, commercial recordings and live mega spectacles. A resident of Calgary, Alberta, Pierce has adapted scores for several hit Broadway national tours and was recently commissioned to compose a new work for Queen Elizabeth II.

Headline Talent Costume Designers: Dsquared2

Dean and Dan Caten, Canadian twin brothers originally from Toronto, Ontario, have worked in the high-end fashion industry since moving to Europe in 1991. They are known for their playful, sexy clothing for men and women and for staging theatrical runway shows. They were selected to design the official uniforms for football team Juventus, and their designs have been worn by Madonna, Christina Aguilera, Rihanna, Usher and most recently Britney Spears for her comeback Circus tour.

Designer: Leslie Frankish

Leslie Frankish of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, has designed over 130 Canadian theatrical productions for companies including the Shaw Festival, Canadian Stage Company and Citadel Theatre.

Designer: Anne-Séguin Poirier

A set and costume designer based in Saint-Lambert, Quebec, Anne-Séguin Poirier is currently working on set design and props for a new Cirque du Soleil production to open in Los Angeles in 2010.

Designer: Connie Watts

Connie Watts of West Vancouver, British Columbia, is an Aboriginal mixed media artist who has shown her artwork across North America. She is currently project manager of the Vancouver 2010 Venues’ Aboriginal Art Program for the 2010 Winter Games.

Design Coordinator: John Powell

A member of the Mamalilikulla band of the Kwak’wala-speaking Nation, John Powell is primarily a designer working in fashion, costume, and interior and graphic design. Some of his more recent projects include costumes for the Vancouver Opera’s The Magic Flute, Firehall Arts Centre’s The Ecstasy of Rita Joe and the Chinese/Aboriginal drum video for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

Designer: Kevin McAllister

Kevin McAllister of Vancouver, British Columbia, designs scenery, lighting and costumes for theatre and opera. His portfolio includes work with the Canadian Opera Company and Vancouver Opera.

Choreography Associate Director: Marlise McCormick

Marlise McCormick’s international career began at Les Ballets Jazz de Montreal and has taken her throughout North America, Europe and the Middle East. She has worked as a designer, director or choreographer for large-scale ceremonial events including the 1994 Commonwealth Games. Marlise splits her time between Vancouver and Europe.

Head of Audiovisual: Cyril Meusy

Cyril Meusy has worked on projects for Vivendi games as well as the media show for the British Columbia Canada Pavilion at the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games. Meusy specializes in 3-D visualization, art direction and motion graphics. He lives in Burnaby, British Columbia.

Lighting Director: Bob Dickinson

Bob Dickinson has won 16 Emmy Awards in his three-decade career in lighting design and has more than 1,500 on-screen television credits including the 1996, 2002 and 2004 Olympic Games, the annual Academy Awards show and nine Super Bowl halftime shows.

Audio Director: Bruce Jackson

As sound designer and house sound engineer for Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen and Barbara Streisand, Bruce Jackson has revolutionized stadium sound. The resident of Culver City, California founded leading audio companies such as JANDS Electronics in the 1960s as well as Apogee Electronics. He is currently a vice-president at Dolby Laboratories.

Headline Talent Producer: Samuel Leon Feldman

Through two different companies, Sam Feldman represents more than 175 musical artists such as Nelly Furtado, Rush, Joni Mitchell and Elvis Costello. Feldman is also a partner in The Characters Talent Agency, representing Canadian actors such as Molly Parker and Ryan Reynolds.

Headline Talent Producer: Dan Fraser

Dan Fraser is the president and co-founder of Nettwerk Management, an international recording artist management company based in Vancouver. He manages the touring careers of artists such as Sarah McLachlan and the Barenaked Ladies.

Headline Talent Producer: Bruce Allen

For more than 35 years, Bruce Allen has guided the careers of musicians, producers and sports figures in the Canadian entertainment industry. His current roster of talent includes Bryan Adams, Martina McBride, Anne Murray and Michael Bublé.

http://www.vancouver2010.com/en/news/news-releases/-/65658/32566/jghich/vanoc-adds-top-creative-talent.html