SIMPLE, SAFE & SPLENDID
In line with Beijing's efforts to stage a "simple, safe and splendid" Games, the opening ceremony will observe the same principle, according to Zhang.
There will not be large-scale performance that stretch for a long time. The number of performers is cut from 15,000 in 2008 to 3,000, with length shorted to less than 100 minutes due to cold weather and the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the quality will not be affected by the decrease in quantity.
"Being simple, just as in martial arts films, is like a master's sword. All his spirit is focused on the tip of the sword, and the power of his stab is different. It looks like a very simple stab, but with fateful power," Zhang explained.
After the plan for the opening ceremony was finalized in May 2021 and stage design ready by October, performers began rehearsals in the National Stadium, or the 'Bird Nest', and will make use of the final month to get ready for the eventual gala.
As a much, if not the most anticipated part of the opening ceremony, how the main cauldron will be lit always attract wild guesses. Zhang revealed that his team came up with "a bold idea for the lighting and the design of the main cauldron."
"This time the way of lighting will certainly be different. It's a major reform of this opening ceremony. It will be unprecedented in the over 100-year history of the Olympic Games," he said.
He hinted that the design was in line with the concept of environmental protection and low carbon emission, but refused to give more clues, saying "it's a secret."
"I'm very nervous. I think it's totally innovative and people will be surprised," he confessed, before expressing gratitude for the BOCOG and the International Olympic Committee for support.
ALWAYS ABOUT THE PEOPLE
Speaking of his expectations for the opening ceremony, Zhang said he was concerned about "people's participation," which is "a major goal of hosting the Olympic Games."
"Not just athletes and professionals winning gold medals and achieving amazing things, but getting more people to participate in sports," he said. "It's always about the people. The spirit, emotion and hope are always the key points."
In the past seven years since Beijing's successful bid, China has fulfilled its promise to engage 300 million people in winter sports, a powerful push in promoting winter sports in a global landscape.
The opening ceremony will also be of a mass character, with some performers coming from schools and grassroots arts groups. Representatives of all works of life will be part of the ceremonial activities.
"I think the expressions of happiness, health, spirit, self-confidence and inspiration are very important. We also emphasize participation in many ways this time," Zhang said.
The chief director mentioned that COVID-19 pandemic has brought about changes in the world and China is faced with a new and complicated international situation. That's why he hoped to present genuine thoughts of the Chinese people through the Olympic stage.
"What the Winter Olympics show is the Chinese people's confidence, pride, love and affection for the people of the world - our great philosophy and values.
"If we can showcase that in an artistic, emotional, and subtle way through the Olympic opening ceremony, so that people can see the real inner thoughts of Chinese people, that will be very meaningful," he concluded.
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