Many commentators were extremely impressed by the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. And many hoped it represented China showing a new, friendly face to the world. But now details are emerging that all may not have been as it seemed. The latest is that the 9 year old girl who charmed the audience with a performance of “Ode to the Motherland” was miming. The vocal line was actually sung by another girl behind-the-scenes, who was deemed to be less pretty by Chinese officials. Here’s what the ceremony’s musical director had to say:
“The reason for this is that we must put our country’s interest first … The girl appearing on the picture must be flawless in terms of her facial expression and the great feeling she can give to people.”
This may only be a trivial matter. But it’s things like this that will reinforce the impression that the Beijing Olympics are little more than a veneer, covering up a more unpalatable truth.
Britain’s best politics newsletters
You get two free articles each week when you sign up to The Spectator’s emails.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just £1 a month
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for £3.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just £1 a monthAlready a subscriber? Log in