An incredible Olympic games would not be complete without a grand closing ceremony, and that is exactly what Russia brought. Right off the bat, Russia performed an amazing opening scene with a cast of over 5000 volunteers. A flying boat along with more than 20 flying angels hovered above thousands of cast members in silvery costumes. The theme of the show is reflections of Russia, and the show intends to show the world how Russia views itself.
Following this impressive display of showmanship, the gold medalists of Russia brought forth the Russian flag to be raised. As the flag reached its highest height, an amazing children’s choir sang the Russian national anthem. As Vladimir Putin stood looking down proudly on his country and his athletes, I can’t help but think that we aren’t so different from the Russians.
The flags of the delegations appeared next as a catchy Russian electronic soundtrack blared through the stadium. All of a sudden, all of the Sochi athletes appeared on the floor. They happily waved to their hundreds of fans. Their smiles showed what great dreams they have realized over the past 14 days.
After the athletes had taken their seats, Russia treated us to a wonderful visual performance all about Russian culture. With upside down houses and upside down people, famous Russian artistry, and fantastic Russian dancing, it was clear that this was going to be a show to remember. The first scene was a tribute to art; a tribute to ballet followed which happened to contain a massive, fully-functioning chandelier. The next tribute featured Russian writers, and the impressive feature even involved a tornado of paper.
An important element remains in the show, the handover. As the Olympic flag passes from the hands of the Sochi Mayor to the Mayor of Pyeongchang, a handing off of the “baton” of the Olympics takes place. South Korea will host the 2018 games with just as much flourish as Sochi has, I’m sure. And to start that flourish off is the South Korean presentation. The performance featured traditional Korean instruments, an impressive operative Korean singer, and beautiful glowing bird dancers. Suddenly, projections of wonderful things waiting for us in Korea began to appear. One thing is for sure, I cannot wait for 2018.
Finally, after the games had been declared closed, Russia performed its final piece, Reflections. As huge mirrors show the crowd their own reflections and a giant Russian bear shows the kindness of Russia to children, Russia’s aura of mystery continues. Russia truly is an incredible country with an incredible history. As the Russian bear tearfully puts out the Olympic torch, Sochi is finally over; it is a sad thought.
But the Grand Finale is here, a New Spring. As a giant airship flies through the air, Russian athletes everywhere shed silent tears. This Olympics has been so historic for the country that for so many years was shaken with conflict. As the seeds of new life fall into Russia during the performance, I can’t help but think that this is a new era for Russia. An era free of Communism, oppression, hatred, and despair. It will be an era of friendship with the world, the United States included. Of course, we must do our part. The Russians are humans just like us, and if we try to see the best in them, we can launch into a world greater than mankind has ever known.
And now, some final thoughts about favorite Olympic moments from East Noble students.
Zan Foltyniak said:
“My favorite moment was when Poland brought home two Gold’s in ski jumping. My favorite winter Olympic athlete is Sage Kotsenburg, the U.S. snowboard slopestyle champion. My most disappointing moment was when the Jamaican bobsled team didn’t win.”
Phillip Phan said:
“A disappointing moment was when Shaun White couldn’t retain his Olympic champion title on the half pipe. I looked forward to watching his crazy moves, but it’s a shame he didn’t take the gold. Another crazy moment was when Ted Ligety had a huge lead margin in the Giant Slalom. People were wondering how he went so fast! That was fun watching him ski.”
Janelle Wasson said:
“My favorite Olympic moment would probably have to be when Team USA swept the podium in men’s slopestyle skiing. I feel a sense of pride when any U.S. athlete earns a medal in their event, but to have three Americans earn gold, silver, and bronze is amazing! Having Shaun White place 4th in men’s half pipe snowboarding was definitely the biggest disappointment for me. He is such a talented athlete and I hate that so much pressure was placed on him to defend his Olympic title.”
From all of us here at The Knightly Scroll, thank you for following our coverage of the Sochi Olympics. We hope you continue to choose The Knightly Scroll as your number one source of local news.