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August 1, 2018

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Tokyo 2020 Games ceremonies to focus on rebirth

THE opening and closing ceremonies at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics will reflect themes of ‘reconstruction’ and ‘re-birth’ that have run through preparations for the Games, creative director Mansai Nomura said yesterday.

Over the last two decades, the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympics and Paralympics have become an increasingly important medium for the host nation to show off its history and culture as well as communicate key messages.

It appears Tokyo 2020 will be no different and Nomura, an actor who features in a traditional form of Japanese comedic theater know as Kyogen, spoke of recovery with a focus on the future and embracing life.

“We are alive,” the 52-year-old told a news conference.

“(We have) experienced war and being victims to natural disasters, this devastation and tragedy. With this in mind, we need to turn our eyes to life.

“The earth is a repetition of death and life and in this cycle we are alive.”

A key theme in the run-up to the Games has been the recovery from the devastating earthquake that struck Japan in 2011.

Nomura, who rejoices in the official title of chief executive creative director, has been tasked with orchestrating the ceremonies for the Olympics and Paralympics around four themes of peace, co-existence, reconstruction and future.

Although he would not give too much away about the content of the ceremonies, he suggested re-birth would be a key theme.

“So, maybe things that are born or nurtured and developed, something like that ... I shouldn’t say more otherwise I will be giving out too much.

“We are alive, we are allowed to live. This is not something limited or unique to Japan, but this spirit and humble mind are part of the spirit of Japan.”

The Tokyo Olympics will run from July 24 to August 9 next year with the Paralympics from August 26 to September 6.




 

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