Olympic Opening Ceremonies to Star Live Animals
Published on June 14, 2012
Danny Boyle's plan for the opening ceremonies of the 2012 Olympic Games is turning into a real zoo.
The Slumdog Millionaire director, who's been tasked with directing the 3-hour extravaganza in London on July 27, is bringing in live animals to replicate the idyllic British countryside. At a preview for reporters, Boyle revealed that the pastoral scene will feature 120 animals, including horses, sheep, cows, goats, chickens, geese and dogs, according to the Guardian.
In an ode to Shakespeare's The Tempest, the $42 million show is titled "Isles of Wonder." Boyle described his vision as a "green and pleasant land" — complete with giant maypoles — right in the middle of the Olympic stadium.
"There's sheep and cows and horses, and they'll be very, very well looked after. Even better looked after than our volunteers," Boyle joked at the preview.
Check out this video to see a miniaturized replica of the opening ceremonies set.
Check out more Vetstreet-exclusive coverage of the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games.