Thomas Jolly, the creative director for the Paris Paralympic Games’ opening ceremony, has revealed exciting and ambitious plans for the event. Scheduled to take place at the historic Champs-Elysees and Place de La Concorde, the ceremony is designed to transform public perceptions of disabilities. Jolly, who also directed the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony, emphasized that dance will be a key feature. Swedish director Alexander Ekman will create a visually impressive performance, featuring dancers using crutches, wheelchairs, and specially adapted tricycles. The music by Victor Le Masne will combine real-life sports sounds with rhythmic beats to highlight both the athletes’ physical abilities and their experiences.

To make the event more accessible, the traditional cobblestones of the Champs-Elysees will be covered with asphalt for the duration of the ceremony. This asphalt will be removed once the Paralympic Games conclude on September 8. Unlike the Olympic Opening Ceremony, which dealt with severe security measures and rainy weather, this ceremony will allow spectators to view the performance from various locations along the Champs-Elysees and near the Louvre Museum. Organizers are ready to adapt to any weather changes that might occur. The ceremony will feature 100 dancers, including 20 with disabilities, and aims to challenge and change societal views on disabilities. The rehearsal, conducted under large banners at La Concorde, featured a grand open arena centered around the Luxor Obelisk. Victor Le Masne’s composition, “Sportography,” captures the spirit of athleticism through its blend of sports sounds and drum rhythms, focusing on the athletes’ experiences.