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The Olympics Opening Ceremony
Oh, What a Night!
By Kendeyl Johansen
Prior to the show, audience members had received a bag of props so that we could participate in the ceremony. Instead of sitting passively in my seat, I had fun waving my flashlight, holding up color-coded cards, singing on cue and even harmonizing with my plastic flute.
I had plenty of time to star-gaze during the ceremony. One of the night's highlights included watching Kristi Yamaguchi skate. I've admired her on TV, but seeing her smooth moves in person was a thrill. And hearing Sting perform with cellist Yo-Yo Ma was a treat for my ears, as were the performances of the Dixie Chicks and LeAnn Rimes.
I was touched to watch President George Bush standing proud and defiant of terrorists as he applauded the athletes. And I was moved watching the American hockey team light the flame. The audience held its breath as the flame almost died, but then it suddenly burned bright again, as if symbolizing the struggle and triumph of athletics.
And just when I thought the night couldn't get any better, enough fireworks exploded to transform night into day with golden fire. I walked out of the stadium beaming, feeling the $885 ticket price was a bargain. The opening ceremony was the greatest show I've seen on earth.
