London school children Get Set to perform in London 2012 Ceremonies

To mark 6 months to go to the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) have today announced that the under 16s Volunteer Performer Cast for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Opening and Closing Ceremonies will be selected from schools in the six Host Boroughs that are in the ‘Get Set network’, the official London 2012 education programme, and incorporating the Olympic and Paralympic Values into their curriculum.

18 primary and 7 secondary schools in the six Host Boroughs have been involved in an audition process for the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony involving children aged 7-9 years and 11-13 years. In total 1,650 children auditioned for the London 2012 Ceremonies Mass Movement Team, undertaking large scale choreography as well as dance routines.

For the selected children there will be between 15 and 20 rehearsals taking place initially at the selected schools, then in East London at London 2012 Ceremonies rehearsal sites and finally in the Olympic Stadium. LOCOG is providing transport between the schools and the rehearsal venues for the young people.

Seb Coe, London 2012 Chair, said: ‘Being part of the Ceremonies is a great way of inspiring young people, I’m delighted school children from the Host Boroughs will be part of show and help tell our story to world. The students involved will have an incredible experience which will build their confidence and a sense of pride in themselves, their friends, family, school and wider community.’

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: ‘We want to create a legacy from the Games by inspiring our young people and ensuring they are at the heart of the celebrations. Not only are we giving young Londoners free tickets to watch the spectacle of sport, hundreds of youngsters will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to actually take part in the biggest event on the planet, watched by millions of people around the world.’

Applications are open until 22 February for adult volunteer performers to audition to participate in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. LOCOG are searching for 5,000 volunteer performers to fill roles as dancers, actors, percussionists and general all-round performers. People can find more information and register their interest for this opportunity by completing the online application form at www.london2012.com/ceremoniescasting.