Beijing's big show will close the Games

Zhang Yimou, chief director of Beijing's eight-minute show at the closing ceremony of next month's Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, said the presentation will showcase a confident and modern China and convey a warm welcome to the world in a high-tech way.

The Pyeongchang Games run from Feb 9-25.

As host of the 2022 Winter Olympics, Beijing will present a show for the handover ceremony, and performers have been busy preparing for their time in the spotlight.

"Beijing's eight-minute show will not only demonstrate a modern China, but also showcase China's confidence to hold the Winter Games and a warm welcome towards the whole world," said Zhang, who was chief director of both the opening and closing ceremonies at the 2008 Summer Games in China's capital.

In the opening ceremony of Beijing 2008, under the artistic direction of Zhang, Chinese contributions to global culture were part of a spectacle brimming with history and technology.

Highlights included presentations dedicated to paper, printing, porcelain and the compass, along with icons such as the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army and the Silk Road,

"China is different from 10 years ago. We have held the Olympics and told the world our history of 5,000 years," said Zhang.

"This time, at Pyeongchang 2018, we are endeavoring to reveal the new achievements of contemporary China rather than repeat the stories of long ago.

"The show will combine high technology and traditional performances. The Winter Games should also highlight winter sports, therefore we will also feature skating and skiing.

"Our performers will not be the traditional dancers or singers, but people who can manage both winter sports and performance."

Pyeonghang Olympic Stadium, where the opening and closing ceremonies will be held, is an outdoor facility. According to the weather forecast, the temperature during the Games will be close to freezing.

The performance team has been rehearsing in suburban Beijing and will head to South Korea on Feb 16.

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