Bringing together more than 25,000 athletes of all skill levels across 37 sports over 10 thrilling days of competition, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi was the largest mass-participation sporting event the region has ever seen, aligning with a national push to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle and sport for all in the UAE.
The National Projects Office and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, organisers for the event, enlisted People to create and deliver the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the event, with Tim Elliott leading the project as Artistic Director.
Elliott and his team set to work to build out the initial narrative for the show. Malia Johnston came onboard as Creative Director, having previously worked with People on the FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, to create and choreograph the show. She worked closely with all of the technical suppliers to bring everything together. Josh Zangen came in as Production Designer and Stephen Page as Lighting Designer. Zangen previously worked with People on the Eid Al Etihad production, bringing his experience of large-scale stadium productions to this event. Karl Jenkins came onboard as Technical Director, with expertise in delivering large-scale international ceremonies and productions.
Photos: People
