Who Wants to be Part of the Olympic Ceremonies?!!

Performers, dancers and athletes of all types now have a chance to apply to be part of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Today marks the launch of the search for thousands of volunteers to participate in these iconic and magical mega-productions that bookend the Games. An online application at www.vancouver2010.com/ceremonies is the first step in the process for anyone aspiring to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“We’re looking for people with all types of performance skills and levels of ability who want to play a part in sharing Canada with the world,” said David Guscott, Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) executive vice-president of celebrations and partnerships. “Previous experience isn’t a requirement, but taking quick action is. This is the one and only call for participation. Above all, we’re looking for volunteers with lots of personality, a positive attitude, tonnes of energy, and a willingness to perform on a stage in front of thousands of people live and billions more around the globe.”

The application process for ceremonies volunteers starts today at www.vancouver2010.com/ceremonies. Candidates are asked to complete an application online that lists their skills and abilities. VANOC is searching for 4,500 dancers, athletes and performers across all disciplines. All performers must be aged 17 or older by May 1, 2009 to apply. Possible opportunities for performers younger than this are still being considered.

The ceremonies provide a showcase for Canada to tell its story to the world through music, dance and special effects.

“The Government of Canada is a proud partner of the 2010 Winter Games and is pleased to support the Opening Ceremony,” said the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport). “All eyes will be on Canada during the Ceremonies and the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. This is a tremendous opportunity to show the world who we are as Canadians. I encourage all Canadians to apply to be part of this important set of events in our country’s history.”

Wendy Tynan, a volunteer Opening Ceremony performer at the Calgary 1988 Olympic Winter Games, has described the experience as life changing. “When my sister and I auditioned to be in the Opening Ceremonies I don’t think we ever realized how much it would transform our lives,” she recalled. “What started off as weekly dance rehearsals quickly became a solid understanding that we were a part of something amazing. The experience changed my life. I discovered not only a love of performing but more importantly it set the stage for a lifelong commitment to volunteering.”

“Participating in the ceremonies as a volunteer is a truly special way to play a role in Olympic history,” said David Atkins, executive producer of the secret Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and head of David Atkins Enterprises Productions Canada Ltd. “It’s also a great opportunity to work with and learn from some of the industry’s best while meeting with people who have similar interests; all in all, an experience you’ll never forget.”

Recruitment of ceremonies volunteers is being supported through limited advertising and targeted outreach to cultural and sport organizations.

Audition and rehearsal timelines:

Auditions will take place over several months starting in May. There will be no open casting calls and applying does not guarantee an audition spot.

Candidates will be notified by this summer if they have been successful in landing a ceremonies role. Rehearsals begin in November and continue through to Games time, including over the December holiday period. Rehearsals will be held twice a week and each volunteer performer will rehearse over 100 hours to prepare for their role.

Applicants may also choose to apply to audition for the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games Ceremonies, which take place in March 2010.

For more information on ways to participate in the ceremonies, please visit www.vancouver2010.com/ceremonies.