THEY'RE OFF!

I'm sure that the whole world is aware that the 2012 London Olympics are now underway. The author is not one for too many fireworks, or indeed, 'anything you can do, we can do better.' Even so, there were aspects of the opening ceremony which were quite impressive. The industrial revolution theme being most surprising, and well staged. The NHS theme on the other hand, was very gimmicky. What was disappointing, was the selection of background music. A medley of Gilbert and Sullivan would not have gone amiss with the 19th century theme. The rural aspect was crying out for 'We'll gather lilacs' (Novello), with a commanding overall theme, Noel Coward's 'London Pride'. What did we get? Boring Rap and Rock and Roll, which offers nothing to remember; lacking the musical quality to linger in the audiences reverie.

The lighting effects created in and around the main stadium were pretty stunning, with high marks going to the director of the opening display, Danny Boyle.


BUT OH! THAT AWFUL MUSIC.