1200 of the best young performers from around New South Wales have been chosen from the 2006 Schools Spectacular to perform at next Wednesday’s Opening Ceremony for the Australian Youth Olympic Festival (AYOF) at the Sydney Entertainment Centre.

The performance marks the beginning of the 2007 Festival with an energetic celebration of the values and spirit of sporting competition that brings together athletes from across the globe.

1600 athletes from 21 countries are competing in the 2007 Festival which comprises 16 sports.

Ceremony director, Richard Spiewak, says that the show seams together to provide a wonderful celebration of the spirit of Olympic competition and the vibrancy of youth.

“It really is an energetic tribute to celebrate the youth of the world as they come together representing the youth of their countries to embrace the values of the Olympics,” said Spiewak.

For Spiewak, the quality of the students performing live on stage will be a highlight.

“It is a collection of the best talent from the public school system in New South Wales. They really are very talented students, and to see a show like this performed live is very entertaining with great energy,” said Spiewak.

Performer, Tiann Williams, is looking forward to the musical aspect of the ceremony: “The talent there will be amazing,” he said.

“The songs are great and will get everyone really pumped.”

Wednesday night’s ceremony will feature four contrasting components that all vary in tempo, theme and historical context, but all four features of the show will thrill what promises to be a full house.

“There will be traditional aspects, but there will also be more contemporary aspects,” said Spiewak. The ceremony will recreate important cultural events in Australia’s and Sydney’s history with the aid of elaborate costume and prop design, as well as music that embodies Australian culture.

“The ceremony highlights the Olympic spirit and takes a look at the youth of today and how they can carry things forward through Olympic ideals,” said Spiewak.

As well as the main features of the celebration, the 2200 athletes and officials at the ceremony will be involved in the athlete’s parade and witness the lighting of the cauldron and the raising of the Olympic flag.

Details: Wednesday, 17 Jan 2007 6:30-8:30PM
Prices: Adults $17.00 / Concession (Child 3-15yrs, Pensioners, Groups 10+) $11.00 / Family (2 Adults + 2 Concession) $45.00

Tickets can be purchased from Ticketmaster, call 1300 883 622, or online at www.ticketmaster.com.au For a complete guide to the 2007 Australian Youth Olympic Festival from 17-21 January in Sydney go to www.olympics.com.au/ayof07

Joe Bromham
AOC