Lady Gaga's Dazzling Performance Nearly Called Off Due to Rain at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony

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ICARO Media Group
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28/07/2024 18h30

In a stunning display of talent and artistry, Lady Gaga wowed audiences with her rendition of Zizi Jeanmaire's "Mon Truc en Plumes" ("My Thing With Feathers") at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024. However, her performance was almost cancelled due to inclement weather.

Maud le Pladec, the choreographer for all Olympics and Paralympics ceremonies who collaborated with Gaga for several months, revealed that the performance had to be pre-recorded due to safety concerns caused by the rain. Despite this, Gaga was determined to sing live, adding an extra layer of authenticity to her incredible four-minute performance.

For the first time in modern history, the opening ceremony took place outside a stadium, along the picturesque Seine River, showcasing the iconic landmarks of Paris. Gaga's performance was one of the twelve carefully crafted numbers for the occasion, and according to Le Pladec, it was the most artistically challenging of them all.

"We had to pre-record Gaga's performance late in the afternoon once we knew for sure that it was going to rain," explained Le Pladec. "Assessing the potential dangers for the performers, we made the decision to prioritize their safety and filmed it earlier. The soil would have been slippery, and with Gaga wearing heels near the water and stairs, we had to exercise extreme caution."

Representatives for Gaga declined to comment on the matter. However, Le Pladec revealed that Gaga was present on-site during the show and watched her performance on screen from her dressing room before returning to her hotel.

Gaga, who has a deep appreciation for French art and music, expressed her desire to create a performance that would celebrate the heart of Paris. The idea to incorporate a Zizi Jeanmaire song came from the artistic director of the ceremonies, Thomas Jolly. Gaga, being familiar with the singer, gladly embraced the opportunity.

To ensure authenticity and pay tribute to French revue, Gaga worked closely with Nicolas Huchard on choreography. She aimed to create a cabaret-style number that combined singing, dancing, humor, and glamour. Collaborations with renowned institutions such as Moulin Rouge and Dior brought her vision to life, with Gaga donning a black bustier outfit created by Dior and borrowing pom poms from the now-closed cabaret, Lido.

Known for her dedication and perfectionism, Gaga worked tirelessly on her vocals and legwork. She trained with dancers who flew in from Paris, immersing herself in the creative process to deliver a truly spectacular performance.

Le Pladec emphasized that Gaga's performance, like the original show by Zizi Jeanmaire, held a feminist essence, as feathers have historically symbolized empowerment for women.

As the Paris Olympics 2024 continue, Le Pladec is already back to work, preparing for three more ceremonies associated with the games. The upcoming highlight will be the Olympics' closing bash, set to take place indoors at the iconic Stade de France.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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