Finale of Glory: The Grand Farewell of Paris 2024

French singer-songwriter Zaho de Sagazan opened the ceremony with "Sous le ciel de Paris," a song deeply rooted in French cultural history. The performance, accompanied by the Handel Hendrix Academy choir in the Tuileries gardens, set a tone of elegance and nostalgia, paying homage to Paris and its iconic legacy in both film and music.  

The Divertimento Symphony Orchestra, led by Zahia Ziouani, performed throughout the ceremony, including a powerful rendition of "La Marseillaise," France’s national anthem. This performance was marked by the entry of President Emmanuel Macron, symbolizing national pride and unity. The orchestra, with over 270 artists, played a central role in the ceremony’s musical narrative.  

The ceremony featured a wide range of musical performances, showcasing both French and international artists. French tenor Benjamin Bernheim, alongside pianist Alain Roche, performed "Hymne à Apollon" on a suspended piano, creating a breathtaking moment that connected modern Olympics to their ancient roots. The band Phoenix and Belgian singer-songwriter Angèle provided contemporary energy, while American artists like H.E.R., the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Snoop Dogg bridged the gap between Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028.  

Tom Cruise made a symbolic appearance holding the Olympic flag, a nod to his iconic status and the connection between the worlds of cinema and sports. His role also included a high-flying stunt, adding to the excitement of the ceremony.  

As per tradition, the Olympic flag was lowered and handed over to Los Angeles, the host of the 2028 Games. This moment was accompanied by the American national anthem, performed by H.E.R., marking the transition from Paris to LA and the continuation of the Olympic legacy.  

The ceremony integrated various cultural elements, including a karaoke rendition of "Les Champs-Elysées," reflecting the joyous atmosphere of the event. The Greek flag was raised in honor of the origins of the Olympics, and classical music was given a modern twist with new arrangements by Victor le Masne, who served as the musical director for the ceremony.  

The ceremony concluded with a performance by French artist Yseult, who sang Frank Sinatra’s "My Way," a song originally based on the French melody "Comme d’habitude." This performance symbolized the spirit of perseverance and individuality, fitting for the conclusion of an event that celebrated the achievements of athletes from around the world.  

The Paris 2024 Closing Ceremony was a masterful blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage while celebrating the global unity that the Olympics foster. The use of diverse musical genres, iconic French symbols, and international collaborations made the event a memorable farewell to the Games. The transition to Los Angeles 2028 was seamless, marked by performances that connected both cities, ensuring the Olympic flame continues to burn brightly. As an artist, creating a representation of this ceremony would involve capturing the vibrancy, emotion, and global significance of these elements, crafting a visual narrative that reflects the beauty and power of the Olympics.  

The dominant blues used in the imagery represent the calm and reflective nature of the closing ceremony, as the games came to a peaceful conclusion. The vibrant lights and fireworks