Showtime: London stages vibrant Olympic opening ceremony - CNN

Showtime: London stages vibrant Olympic opening ceremony

By Laura Smith-Spark, CNN

Updated 0200 GMT (1000 HKT) July 28, 2012

The countdown to the start of the opening ceremony is projected across the stands while the Royal Air Force aerobatic team, the Red Arrows, flies over the Olympic Stadium. The opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games was held on Friday, July 27. Check out photos from the<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/12/world/gallery/olympic-closing-ceremony/index.html" target="_blank"> closing ceremony.</a>
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – The countdown to the start of the opening ceremony is projected across the stands while the Royal Air Force aerobatic team, the Red Arrows, flies over the Olympic Stadium. The opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games was held on Friday, July 27. Check out photos from the closing ceremony.
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Spectators take shelter under umbrellas prior to the start of the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Spectators take shelter under umbrellas prior to the start of the opening ceremony.
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A man wearing glasses waits for the start of the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A man wearing glasses waits for the start of the opening ceremony.
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A balloon flies over spectators prior to the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – A balloon flies over spectators prior to the opening ceremony.
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Spectators wait under the rain before the ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Spectators wait under the rain before the ceremony.
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The Red Arrows fly over Olympic Stadium before the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Red Arrows fly over Olympic Stadium before the opening ceremony.
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A robotic camera captures an overview of the Olympic Stadium at the start of the London 2012 Opening Ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A robotic camera captures an overview of the Olympic Stadium at the start of the London 2012 Opening Ceremony.
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Performers prepare for the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers prepare for the opening ceremony.
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The Red Arrows fly over the Olympic Stadium and the ArcelorMittal Orbit Tower.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Red Arrows fly over the Olympic Stadium and the ArcelorMittal Orbit Tower.
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Danny Boyle, the London 2012 artistic director, addresses the audience.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Danny Boyle, the London 2012 artistic director, addresses the audience.
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The Red Arrows disappear over London ahead of the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Red Arrows disappear over London ahead of the opening ceremony.
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Bradley Wiggins, the first British winner of the Tour De France cycle race, waves to the audience.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Bradley Wiggins, the first British winner of the Tour De France cycle race, waves to the audience.
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A young performer holds a balloon bearing the Olympic rings.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – A young performer holds a balloon bearing the Olympic rings.
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A young performer holds a balloon.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A young performer holds a balloon.
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Artists take the field for the meadow scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists take the field for the meadow scene.
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Artists arrive before the start of the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists arrive before the start of the opening ceremony.
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Fans take photos as cows are lead across the stadium floor.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fans take photos as cows are lead across the stadium floor.
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Artists arrive in a horse and carriage.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists arrive in a horse and carriage.
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Actors perform during the British meadow scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Actors perform during the British meadow scene.
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Performers depict a view of the English countryside.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers depict a view of the English countryside.
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Performers depict a view of the English countryside.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers depict a view of the English countryside.
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Cricketers play on the pitch during the preshow.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Cricketers play on the pitch during the preshow.
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Actors perform during the British meadow scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Actors perform during the British meadow scene.
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The London Symphony Orchestra performs during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The London Symphony Orchestra performs during the opening ceremony.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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A general view of the inside of the stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A general view of the inside of the stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, at the start of the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, at the start of the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.
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General view taken during a scene of The Age of Industry.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – General view taken during a scene of The Age of Industry.
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Huge chimneys emerge from the ground to symbolize the industrial revolution.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Huge chimneys emerge from the ground to symbolize the industrial revolution.
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An inflatable yellow submarine floats above artists.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – An inflatable yellow submarine floats above artists.
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Inflatable yellow submarines float above artists during The Age of Industry scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Inflatable yellow submarines float above artists during The Age of Industry scene.
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Spectators watch the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Spectators watch the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, attends the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games on Friday.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, attends the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games on Friday.
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A general view of Olympic Stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A general view of Olympic Stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Actors perform during the British meadow scene during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Actors perform during the British meadow scene during the opening ceremony.
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Kenneth Branagh performs as Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Kenneth Branagh performs as Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
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Artists perform as the sun sets in the background.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform as the sun sets in the background.
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The sun sets behind performers.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The sun sets behind performers.
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Drummers dressed in period garb perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Drummers dressed in period garb perform during the opening ceremony.
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Performers drum during the Opening Ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers drum during the Opening Ceremony.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Drummers during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Drummers during the opening ceremony.
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Actors perform during the industrial revolution scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Actors perform during the industrial revolution scene.
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A general view of the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A general view of the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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The Olympic rings form.
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opening ceremonies 28 – The Olympic rings form.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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The Olympic rings are assembled above the stadium in a scene depicting the Industrial Revolution.
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Olympics: Opening ceremonyv – The Olympic rings are assembled above the stadium in a scene depicting the Industrial Revolution.
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Freshly "forged" Olympic Rings fly above the chimneys during The Age of Industry scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Freshly "forged" Olympic Rings fly above the chimneys during The Age of Industry scene.
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Olympic rings are assembled.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Olympic rings are assembled.
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An actor dressed to resemble Britain's Queen Elizabeth II parachutes into the stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – An actor dressed to resemble Britain's Queen Elizabeth II parachutes into the stadium.
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People wave Union flags during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – People wave Union flags during the opening ceremony.
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Artists dressed in costumes perform.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists dressed in costumes perform.
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Performers with jetpacks take part in the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers with jetpacks take part in the opening ceremony.
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An actor dressed to resemble Britain's Queen Elizabeth II parachutes into the stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – An actor dressed to resemble Britain's Queen Elizabeth II parachutes into the stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Queen Elizabeth II, right, and Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee, attend the ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Queen Elizabeth II, right, and Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee, attend the ceremony.
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Actors and dancers play Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital staff and patients.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Actors and dancers play Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital staff and patients.
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Performers from the GOSH, Great Ormond Street Hospital, perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers from the GOSH, Great Ormond Street Hospital, perform during the opening ceremony.
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An artist flies over children and nurses during the Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – An artist flies over children and nurses during the Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital scene.
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Actors perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Actors perform during the opening ceremony.
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Dancers perform in the GOSH and NHS scene.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Dancers perform in the GOSH and NHS scene.
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Children perform a song.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Children perform a song.
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Giant puppets depicting Lord Voldemort, center, from the Harry Potter books and the Child Catcher from "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" swirl around the stage in the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Giant puppets depicting Lord Voldemort, center, from the Harry Potter books and the Child Catcher from "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" swirl around the stage in the opening ceremony.
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Lord Voldemort looms over the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Lord Voldemort looms over the opening ceremony.
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Spectators wearing 3-D glasses during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Spectators wearing 3-D glasses during the opening ceremony.
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An artist performs during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – An artist performs during the opening ceremony.
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General view taken as actors perform during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – General view taken as actors perform during the opening ceremony.
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Giant pictures depicting villains of British literature, including Captain Hook from "Peter Pan," are displayed during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Giant pictures depicting villains of British literature, including Captain Hook from "Peter Pan," are displayed during the opening ceremony.
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An actor dressed as Mary Poppins performs in the GOSH and NHS scene.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – An actor dressed as Mary Poppins performs in the GOSH and NHS scene.
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Performers float with umbrellas as they play the role of Mary Poppins.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers float with umbrellas as they play the role of Mary Poppins.
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General view taken as actors perform during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – General view taken as actors perform during the opening ceremony.
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Dancers perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Dancers perform during the opening ceremony.
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British actor Rowan Atkinson in his role as Mr. Bean plays in the orchestra.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – British actor Rowan Atkinson in his role as Mr. Bean plays in the orchestra.
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A broad view of the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A broad view of the opening ceremony.
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Performers dance to British music spanning the decades.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers dance to British music spanning the decades.
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A general view of the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A general view of the opening ceremony.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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An artist performs with a glowing pacifier during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – An artist performs with a glowing pacifier during the opening ceremony.
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A performer in a giant ball is passed around during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – A performer in a giant ball is passed around during the opening ceremony.
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Dancers perform under a "setting sun" in a scene dramatizing the struggle between life and death.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Dancers perform under a "setting sun" in a scene dramatizing the struggle between life and death.
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General view of performers during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – General view of performers during the opening ceremony.
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Dancers perform in a scene dramatizing the struggle between life and death.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Dancers perform in a scene dramatizing the struggle between life and death.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Performers dance during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Performers dance during the opening ceremony.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists perform during the opening ceremony.
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A parachutist lands outside the Olympic Stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – A parachutist lands outside the Olympic Stadium.
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Artists wearing wings and riding bicylces perform during the ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Artists wearing wings and riding bicylces perform during the ceremony.
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The Olympic stadium lit up in red and blue during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Olympic stadium lit up in red and blue during the opening ceremony.
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Members of the Australia team parde into the stadium.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Members of the Australia team parde into the stadium.
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Members of Brazil's delegation hold their national flag as they walk during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Members of Brazil's delegation hold their national flag as they walk during the opening ceremony.
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Simon Whitfield of the Canada Olympic triathlon team carries his country's flag.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Simon Whitfield of the Canada Olympic triathlon team carries his country's flag.
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Canadian athletes enter the stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Canadian athletes enter the stadium.
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Chinese athletes enter the stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Chinese athletes enter the stadium.
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Croatia's delegation parades during the opening ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Croatia's delegation parades during the opening ceremony.
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Athletes parade during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Athletes parade during the opening ceremony.
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Members of India's delegation parade in the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Members of India's delegation parade in the opening ceremony.
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A member of India's delegation takes a picture as he parades during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – A member of India's delegation takes a picture as he parades during the opening ceremony.
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Ali Mazaheri of the Iran Olympic boxing team carries his country's flag.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Ali Mazaheri of the Iran Olympic boxing team carries his country's flag.
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Members of Iran's delegation parade during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Members of Iran's delegation parade during the opening ceremony.
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Usain Bolt leads the Jamaican Olympic team around the stadium.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Usain Bolt leads the Jamaican Olympic team around the stadium.
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Reigning Olympic men's 100-meter and 200-meter champion Usain Bolt of Jamaica carries his country's flag.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Reigning Olympic men's 100-meter and 200-meter champion Usain Bolt of Jamaica carries his country's flag.
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An image of Jamaica's track star Usain Bolt, currently the world's fastest man, is projected on The Houses of Parliament in London.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – An image of Jamaica's track star Usain Bolt, currently the world's fastest man, is projected on The Houses of Parliament in London.
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Natascha Keller of the German Olympic hockey team carries her country's flag during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Natascha Keller of the German Olympic hockey team carries her country's flag during the opening ceremony.
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Song-Chol Pak of the North Korea Olympic team carries his country's flag.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Song-Chol Pak of the North Korea Olympic team carries his country's flag.
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Athletes parade during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Athletes parade during the opening ceremony.
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Philippine Van Aanholt, an independent Olympic athlete, parades during the opening ceremony
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Philippine Van Aanholt, an independent Olympic athlete, parades during the opening ceremony
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Mariel Zagunis of the United States Olympic fencing team carries her country's flag.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Mariel Zagunis of the United States Olympic fencing team carries her country's flag.
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Fencer Mariel Zagunis leads the U.S. Olympic team around the stadium.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fencer Mariel Zagunis leads the U.S. Olympic team around the stadium.
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An image of British Olympic champion Jonathan Edwards is projected on the Houses of Parliament .
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – An image of British Olympic champion Jonathan Edwards is projected on the Houses of Parliament .
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Members of the Britain's delegation parade wave.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Members of the Britain's delegation parade wave.
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British spectators cheer as they attend the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – British spectators cheer as they attend the opening ceremony.
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Fireworks explode from the top of Tower Bridge.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks explode from the top of Tower Bridge.
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Fireworks go off from Tower Bridge.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks go off from Tower Bridge.
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Fireworks light up Tower Bridge.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks light up Tower Bridge.
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Fireworks are displayed at Tower Bridge.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks are displayed at Tower Bridge.
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David Beckham passes under Tower Bridge driving a speedboat named "Max Power," which carries the Olympic Torch.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – David Beckham passes under Tower Bridge driving a speedboat named "Max Power," which carries the Olympic Torch.
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Torchbearer Sir Steve Redgrave hands the Olympic flame over to the seven young athletes who represent Britain's hopes for the next Olympics.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Torchbearer Sir Steve Redgrave hands the Olympic flame over to the seven young athletes who represent Britain's hopes for the next Olympics.
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The young athletes carry the Olympic glame.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The young athletes carry the Olympic glame.
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The Olympic flame is carried into the stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Olympic flame is carried into the stadium.
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The Olympic flame burns in the cauldron.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Olympic flame burns in the cauldron.
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The Olympic flame is seen in the stadium during the ceremony.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – The Olympic flame is seen in the stadium during the ceremony.
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Participants look on as the Olympic flame burns in the cauldron.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Participants look on as the Olympic flame burns in the cauldron.
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Fireworks over the Olympic Stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks over the Olympic Stadium.
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Fireworks burst above the stadium during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks burst above the stadium during the opening ceremony.
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Fireworks cast a purple glow over the Olympic Stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks cast a purple glow over the Olympic Stadium.
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Fireworks explode from the stadium roof.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks explode from the stadium roof.
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Fireworks ignite over the Olympic Stadium.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks ignite over the Olympic Stadium.
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People cheer as they watch the opening ceremony on an outdoor screen at Piccadilly Circus.
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – People cheer as they watch the opening ceremony on an outdoor screen at Piccadilly Circus.
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Fireworks light up the Olympic Stadium and the night sky.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks light up the Olympic Stadium and the night sky.
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Fireworks over the Olympic Stadium.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks over the Olympic Stadium.
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Fireworks illuminate the sky in a fiery rainbow of color.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks illuminate the sky in a fiery rainbow of color.
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Fireworks go off over the Olympic Stadium at the official opening of the 2012 Games.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks go off over the Olympic Stadium at the official opening of the 2012 Games.
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Danny Boyle, the director of the opening ceremony, reacts to the show.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Danny Boyle, the director of the opening ceremony, reacts to the show.
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Fireworks form a fiery ring over the Olympic Stadium.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks form a fiery ring over the Olympic Stadium.
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General view as fireworks illuminate the sky during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – General view as fireworks illuminate the sky during the opening ceremony.
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Fireworks are let off over the Olympic stadium
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Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks are let off over the Olympic stadium
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Sir Paul McCartney performs during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Sir Paul McCartney performs during the opening ceremony.
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Fireworks light up the sky during the opening ceremony. Check out photos from the <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/12/world/gallery/olympic-closing-ceremony/index.html" target="_blank">closing ceremony.</a>
Photos: Olympics: Opening ceremony
Olympics: Opening ceremony – Fireworks light up the sky during the opening ceremony. Check out photos from the closing ceremony.
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Story highlights

  • Young athletes light the Olympic cauldron after the queen opens the games
  • Performances pay tribute to British history, literature and music
  • The Greek delegation leads the parade of athletes into the stadium
  • Organizers had sought beforehand to keep the event's details secret
Few shows can claim such an audience. As the dramatic spectacle of the Olympic Games opening ceremony in London unfolded Friday night, organizers estimated a billion people around the world would be glued to their television sets to see it, either live or delayed by a few hours.
Tens of thousands more were lucky enough to have a seat inside the Olympic Stadium, the centerpiece of Olympic Park in east London.
Dubbed "Isles of Wonder," it was quite a show -- fast-paced and diverse, with everything from people dancing in period costumes to a pseudo house party. It featured tributes to the British countryside and the Industrial Revolution (complete with smokestacks emerging from the ground), showcased the "Chariots of Fire" soundtrack as well as pop music staples from the Beatles to Amy Winehouse, and even comedy bits featuring Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson), actor Daniel Craig and even Queen Elizabeth II herself.
The queen was among the more than 80 heads of state attending the event, which sets the scene for the Games to come.
London cheers Olympic torch as opening day nears
Once the torch reached its final destination inside the Olympic Stadium, it was used to ignite the cauldron during the opening ceremony on July 27. The flame traveled 2,875 kilometers (1,786 miles) through the United Kingdom over 70 days.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
Once the torch reached its final destination inside the Olympic Stadium, it was used to ignite the cauldron during the opening ceremony on July 27. The flame traveled 2,875 kilometers (1,786 miles) through the United Kingdom over 70 days.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Once the torch reached its final destination inside the Olympic Stadium, it was used to ignite the cauldron during the opening ceremony on July 27. The flame traveled 2,875 kilometers (1,786 miles) through the United Kingdom over 70 days.
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Five-time Olympic rowing gold medalist Steve Redgrave of Britain carries the torch during the opening ceremony and then hands it off to a group of young athletes.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Five-time Olympic rowing gold medalist Steve Redgrave of Britain carries the torch during the opening ceremony and then hands it off to a group of young athletes.
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Young athletes carry the Olympic torch toward the cauldron during the opening ceremony.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Young athletes carry the Olympic torch toward the cauldron during the opening ceremony.
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The Olympic flame is lit inside the stadium.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – The Olympic flame is lit inside the stadium.
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The athletes ignited an outer rim of torches, setting off a chain reaction, spreading fire to other pieces until the cauldron was engulfed.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – The athletes ignited an outer rim of torches, setting off a chain reaction, spreading fire to other pieces until the cauldron was engulfed.
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The individual torches rise up to form and engulf the cauldron in fire.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – The individual torches rise up to form and engulf the cauldron in fire.
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A wide view of the cauldron lighting inside the Olympic Stadium.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – A wide view of the cauldron lighting inside the Olympic Stadium.
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As the pieces rise, the cauldron is formed.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – As the pieces rise, the cauldron is formed.
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The lit cauldron inside the Olympic Stadium.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – The lit cauldron inside the Olympic Stadium.
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The Queen's royal row barge Gloriana carries the Olympic flame along the River Thames past the Parliament on Friday, July 27, the final day of the torch relay in London.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – The Queen's royal row barge Gloriana carries the Olympic flame along the River Thames past the Parliament on Friday, July 27, the final day of the torch relay in London.
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Musician Tyler Rix lights the Olympic cauldron during the torch relay finale concert in London's Hyde Park on Thursday, July 26.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Musician Tyler Rix lights the Olympic cauldron during the torch relay finale concert in London's Hyde Park on Thursday, July 26.
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Torchbearers Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley, known for their "Absolutely Fabulous" characters Edina and Patsy, carry the Olympic flame through Lambeth, Kensington and Chelsea on Thursday, July 26, in London.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearers Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley, known for their "Absolutely Fabulous" characters Edina and Patsy, carry the Olympic flame through Lambeth, Kensington and Chelsea on Thursday, July 26, in London.
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Torchbearer Ifeyinwa Egesi holds the Olympic flame inside the Globe Theatre in London on Thursday.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearer Ifeyinwa Egesi holds the Olympic flame inside the Globe Theatre in London on Thursday.
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Torchbearer Rhyania Blackett-codrington, right, passes on the Olympic flame to comedian David Walliams, left, before setting off from Islington Town Hall July 26.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearer Rhyania Blackett-codrington, right, passes on the Olympic flame to comedian David Walliams, left, before setting off from Islington Town Hall July 26.
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The Olympic torch is carried Thursday on top of an open top bus down Oxford Street in London.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – The Olympic torch is carried Thursday on top of an open top bus down Oxford Street in London.
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Indian Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, center, carries the Olympic flame through the streets of London on Thursday, July 26, the day before the opening ceremony.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Indian Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, center, carries the Olympic flame through the streets of London on Thursday, July 26, the day before the opening ceremony.
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Wheelchair basketball player Adedoyin Adepitan of Great Britain carries the Olympic flame Thursday over Millennium Bridge in front of St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Wheelchair basketball player Adedoyin Adepitan of Great Britain carries the Olympic flame Thursday over Millennium Bridge in front of St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
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Torchbearer Paris Walker holds the Olympic flame Thursday as it travels on a barge at Camden Lock in London.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearer Paris Walker holds the Olympic flame Thursday as it travels on a barge at Camden Lock in London.
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Torchbearer Daniel Mccubbin holds the Olympic flame inside St. Pancras International Railway Station on Thursday, July 26.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearer Daniel Mccubbin holds the Olympic flame inside St. Pancras International Railway Station on Thursday, July 26.
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Torchbearer Scott Moorhouse, a Paralympic javelin thrower, runs with the Olympic flame along Tottenham High Road in London on Wednesday, July 25.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearer Scott Moorhouse, a Paralympic javelin thrower, runs with the Olympic flame along Tottenham High Road in London on Wednesday, July 25.
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Spectators watch as the flame makes its way up Tottenham High Road on Wednesday, July 25.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Spectators watch as the flame makes its way up Tottenham High Road on Wednesday, July 25.
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James Cracknell carries the Olympic flame on the torch relay leg through Kingston Upon Thames on Tuesday, July 24. The flame is traveling 2,875 kilometers (1,786 miles) through the United Kingdom over 70 days. Its journey ends Friday at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – James Cracknell carries the Olympic flame on the torch relay leg through Kingston Upon Thames on Tuesday, July 24. The flame is traveling 2,875 kilometers (1,786 miles) through the United Kingdom over 70 days. Its journey ends Friday at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Explorer Amelia Hempleman-Adams carries the Olympic torch as she stands on the roof of a pod on the London Eye in central London on Sunday, July 22.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Explorer Amelia Hempleman-Adams carries the Olympic torch as she stands on the roof of a pod on the London Eye in central London on Sunday, July 22.
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A spectator sits atop a phone booth as people gather to watch the Olympic torch pass through Greenwich in London on Saturday, July 21.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – A spectator sits atop a phone booth as people gather to watch the Olympic torch pass through Greenwich in London on Saturday, July 21.
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Torchbearers "kiss" their torches to pass the Olympic flame during the London 2012 torch relay through the Borough of Tower Hamlets in London on Saturday, July 21.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – Torchbearers "kiss" their torches to pass the Olympic flame during the London 2012 torch relay through the Borough of Tower Hamlets in London on Saturday, July 21.
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British Royal Marine Martyn Williams abseils from a helicopter with the Olympic flame into the grounds of the Tower of London on day 63 of the 70-day relay, which has involved 8,000 torchbearers.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame lands in London – British Royal Marine Martyn Williams abseils from a helicopter with the Olympic flame into the grounds of the Tower of London on day 63 of the 70-day relay, which has involved 8,000 torchbearers.
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British sailor Sir Robin Knox-Johnston runs around the restored Cutty Sark ship with the London 2012 Olympic Torch in Greenwich, south London, on Saturday July 21.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – British sailor Sir Robin Knox-Johnston runs around the restored Cutty Sark ship with the London 2012 Olympic Torch in Greenwich, south London, on Saturday July 21.
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David Boyle carries the flame on a boat rowed by the Maidstone Rowing Club during his leg through Maidstone, England, on July 20.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – David Boyle carries the flame on a boat rowed by the Maidstone Rowing Club during his leg through Maidstone, England, on July 20.
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Christopher Bury carries the flame through Mote Park in Maidstone, England, on July 20.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Christopher Bury carries the flame through Mote Park in Maidstone, England, on July 20.
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British artist Tracey Emin holds the Olympic flame inside the Turner Contemporary Gallery in Margate alongside "The Kiss" sculpture by Rodin on Thursday, July 19.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – British artist Tracey Emin holds the Olympic flame inside the Turner Contemporary Gallery in Margate alongside "The Kiss" sculpture by Rodin on Thursday, July 19.
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Torchbearer Daisy Shepherd of East Sussex carries the Olympic flame through Hastings on the southern coast of England on Wednesday, July 18.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Torchbearer Daisy Shepherd of East Sussex carries the Olympic flame through Hastings on the southern coast of England on Wednesday, July 18.
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Torchbearer Kathy Gore of Uckfield runs with the Olympic flame at Seaford Head in front of the Seven Sisters cliffs in East Sussex on Tuesday, July 17.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Torchbearer Kathy Gore of Uckfield runs with the Olympic flame at Seaford Head in front of the Seven Sisters cliffs in East Sussex on Tuesday, July 17.
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Keith Leech of Hastings uses the Olympic flame to light the cauldron in Hastings on Tuesday, July 17.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Keith Leech of Hastings uses the Olympic flame to light the cauldron in Hastings on Tuesday, July 17.
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Thomas Mules carries the Olympic flame on Pulpit Rock, Portland Bill, on Friday, July 13.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Thomas Mules carries the Olympic flame on Pulpit Rock, Portland Bill, on Friday, July 13.
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Relay fans watch Andrew Clutton from the top of a ship's mast as he carries the Olympic flame between Hamworthy and Poole on Friday, July 13.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Relay fans watch Andrew Clutton from the top of a ship's mast as he carries the Olympic flame between Hamworthy and Poole on Friday, July 13.
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Ryan Hope carries the torch Thursday, July 12, on the row boat Penny off the waters of Weymouth.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Ryan Hope carries the torch Thursday, July 12, on the row boat Penny off the waters of Weymouth.
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Schoolgirls outside Salisbury Cathedral on Thursday hold the torch carried by retired sprinter and four-time gold medal winner Michael Johnson.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Schoolgirls outside Salisbury Cathedral on Thursday hold the torch carried by retired sprinter and four-time gold medal winner Michael Johnson.
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Olympic gold medalist and former sprinter Michael Johnson carries the flame at Stonehenge onThursday.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Olympic gold medalist and former sprinter Michael Johnson carries the flame at Stonehenge onThursday.
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Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II and Lord Sebastian Coe watch as Olympic torchbearer Gina Macgregor passes the flame to Phil Wells at Windsor Castle in Windsor, England, on July 10.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II and Lord Sebastian Coe watch as Olympic torchbearer Gina Macgregor passes the flame to Phil Wells at Windsor Castle in Windsor, England, on July 10.
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Competitive canoeist Zachary Franklin carries the flame at the Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, England, on July 7.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Competitive canoeist Zachary Franklin carries the flame at the Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, England, on July 7.
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Lauren Reeder, a teaching assistant, is surrounded by local children while carrying the torch in King's Lynn, England, on July 4.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Lauren Reeder, a teaching assistant, is surrounded by local children while carrying the torch in King's Lynn, England, on July 4.
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Retired police officer Glenn Chambers carries the flame through heavy rain in Lincoln, England, on June 28.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Retired police officer Glenn Chambers carries the flame through heavy rain in Lincoln, England, on June 28.
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Torchbearer Eugene Perry carries the Olympic flame at Sutton Bank in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park in York, England, on June 20.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Torchbearer Eugene Perry carries the Olympic flame at Sutton Bank in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park in York, England, on June 20.
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Joseph Forrester, 12, and children from Madras College run along West Sands in St. Andrews, Scotland, on June 13.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Joseph Forrester, 12, and children from Madras College run along West Sands in St. Andrews, Scotland, on June 13.
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Andrea Strachan, a competitive swimmer, carries the Olympic flame along the shore in Lerwick, Scotland, on June 10.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Andrea Strachan, a competitive swimmer, carries the Olympic flame along the shore in Lerwick, Scotland, on June 10.
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Actor James McAvoy carries the torch down Buchanan Street in Glasgow, Scotland, on June 8.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Actor James McAvoy carries the torch down Buchanan Street in Glasgow, Scotland, on June 8.
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Triathlete Peter Jack holds the Olympic flame while on the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland on June 4.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Triathlete Peter Jack holds the Olympic flame while on the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland on June 4.
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Comedian John Bishop carries the Olympic flame on top of the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Jodrell Bank, England, on May 31.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Comedian John Bishop carries the Olympic flame on top of the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Jodrell Bank, England, on May 31.
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Television presenter, adventurer and writer Ben Fogle carries the Olympic flame in a hot air balloon on May 19, the first day of the relay.
Photos: Photos: The Olympic flame's journey
The Olympic flame's journey – Television presenter, adventurer and writer Ben Fogle carries the Olympic flame in a hot air balloon on May 19, the first day of the relay.
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Anticipation builds for the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics on Friday, July 27, at the Olympic Stadium in London. The 2012 Games will run through August 12.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Anticipation builds for the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics on Friday, July 27, at the Olympic Stadium in London. The 2012 Games will run through August 12.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Anticipation builds for the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics on Friday, July 27, at the Olympic Stadium in London. The 2012 Games will run through August 12.
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The sun sets behind the Tower Bridge in London hours before the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games on Friday.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – The sun sets behind the Tower Bridge in London hours before the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games on Friday.
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South Korean archer Im Dong Hyun celebrates breaking the first world record of the London Olympics on Friday. The two-time gold medalist, who is classified as legally blind and can't see out of his right eye, bettered his own 72-arrow mark in the qualification competition.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – South Korean archer Im Dong Hyun celebrates breaking the first world record of the London Olympics on Friday. The two-time gold medalist, who is classified as legally blind and can't see out of his right eye, bettered his own 72-arrow mark in the qualification competition.
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Kaori Kawanaka of Japan, Pia Lionetti of Italy and Tetyana Dorokhova of Ukraine retrieve their arrows Friday during the archery ranking round on opening day of the Olympics in London.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Kaori Kawanaka of Japan, Pia Lionetti of Italy and Tetyana Dorokhova of Ukraine retrieve their arrows Friday during the archery ranking round on opening day of the Olympics in London.
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Brady Ellison of the United States prepares for the archery ranking round on Olympics opening day in London.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Brady Ellison of the United States prepares for the archery ranking round on Olympics opening day in London.
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A Belgian cyclist rides during a track cycling practice session ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games on Friday in London.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – A Belgian cyclist rides during a track cycling practice session ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games on Friday in London.
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Competitors inspect targets Friday during the Archery Ranking Round at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Competitors inspect targets Friday during the Archery Ranking Round at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London.
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Slovenia's Klemen Strajhar gets ready to arch during the Archery Ranking Round at the Lord's Cricket Ground as part of the Olympics' opening day Friday.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Slovenia's Klemen Strajhar gets ready to arch during the Archery Ranking Round at the Lord's Cricket Ground as part of the Olympics' opening day Friday.
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The royal barge Gloriana carries the Olympic flame along the River Thames from Hampton Court to Tower Bridge on Friday, the final day of the Olympic torch relay. The grand finale will see the torch enter the Olympic Stadium, the last stage in a 70-day relay around the United Kingdom, and set the Olympic cauldron aflame Friday, symbolizing the beginning of the Games.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – The royal barge Gloriana carries the Olympic flame along the River Thames from Hampton Court to Tower Bridge on Friday, the final day of the Olympic torch relay. The grand finale will see the torch enter the Olympic Stadium, the last stage in a 70-day relay around the United Kingdom, and set the Olympic cauldron aflame Friday, symbolizing the beginning of the Games.
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Sadio Mane of Senegal leaps over goalkeeper Jack Butland of Great Britain during the first-round men's soccer match between Great Britain and Senegal at Old Trafford on Thursday, July 26, in Manchester, England.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Sadio Mane of Senegal leaps over goalkeeper Jack Butland of Great Britain during the first-round men's soccer match between Great Britain and Senegal at Old Trafford on Thursday, July 26, in Manchester, England.
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Marvin Sordell of Great Britain battles with Moussa Konate of Senegal during the first-round match between Great Britain and Senegal.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Marvin Sordell of Great Britain battles with Moussa Konate of Senegal during the first-round match between Great Britain and Senegal.
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Japanese fans show support for their team during the men's first-round match between Spain and Japan at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland on Thursday.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Japanese fans show support for their team during the men's first-round match between Spain and Japan at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland on Thursday.
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Great Britain's Craig Bellamy celebrates a goal during the first round Group A Match between Great Britain and Senegal on Thursday, July 26, in Manchester, England.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Great Britain's Craig Bellamy celebrates a goal during the first round Group A Match between Great Britain and Senegal on Thursday, July 26, in Manchester, England.
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Uruguay forward Edinson Cavani, right, slips a pass under United Arab Emirates defender Abdelaziz Sanqour, left, in Manchester on Thursday. Uruguay defeated the UAE, 2-1.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Uruguay forward Edinson Cavani, right, slips a pass under United Arab Emirates defender Abdelaziz Sanqour, left, in Manchester on Thursday. Uruguay defeated the UAE, 2-1.
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Great Britain fans attend the Group A Match between Great Britain and Senegal on Thursday in Manchester.
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Olympics get under way – Great Britain fans attend the Group A Match between Great Britain and Senegal on Thursday in Manchester.
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Gabon's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, right, celebrates after scoring a goal during the men's soccer match against Switzerland on Thursday in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Gabon's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, right, celebrates after scoring a goal during the men's soccer match against Switzerland on Thursday in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England.
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An open double-deck bus carries the Olympic torch down Oxford Street on Thursday in London.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – An open double-deck bus carries the Olympic torch down Oxford Street on Thursday in London.
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Morocco's Houssine Kharja, right, controls the ball against Honduras' Roger Espinoza during a first-round Group D match Thursday in Glasgow, Scotland.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Morocco's Houssine Kharja, right, controls the ball against Honduras' Roger Espinoza during a first-round Group D match Thursday in Glasgow, Scotland.
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Ismail Matar, center, of the United Arab Emirates celebrates with his teammates after scoring in a first-round Group A match against Uruguay on Thursday in Manchester, England.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Ismail Matar, center, of the United Arab Emirates celebrates with his teammates after scoring in a first-round Group A match against Uruguay on Thursday in Manchester, England.
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Spain's Juan Mata, left, challenges Hotaru Yamaguchi of Japan during a group D soccer match Thursday in Glasgow.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Spain's Juan Mata, left, challenges Hotaru Yamaguchi of Japan during a group D soccer match Thursday in Glasgow.
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The ExCeL exhibition center, one of the Olympic venues, is gearing up Thursday on the eve of the Games' opening ceremony.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – The ExCeL exhibition center, one of the Olympic venues, is gearing up Thursday on the eve of the Games' opening ceremony.
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Yuki Otsu of Japan is tackled by Inigo Martinez of Spain during a first-round Group D soccer match Thursday in Glasgow.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Yuki Otsu of Japan is tackled by Inigo Martinez of Spain during a first-round Group D soccer match Thursday in Glasgow.
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A Mexican fan watches the men's soccer match Thursday between Mexico and South Korea in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – A Mexican fan watches the men's soccer match Thursday between Mexico and South Korea in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
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Spain's Inigo Martinez, left, fouls Kensuke Nagai of Japan during the match Thursday.
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Olympics get under way – Spain's Inigo Martinez, left, fouls Kensuke Nagai of Japan during the match Thursday.
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Spain's Martinez gets a red card and is ejected during Thursday's match against Japan.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Spain's Martinez gets a red card and is ejected during Thursday's match against Japan.
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Spectators take pictures Thursday at the Olympic Village in London.
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Olympics get under way – Spectators take pictures Thursday at the Olympic Village in London.
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Abdelaziz Barrada of Morocco celebrates after scoring during a Group D soccer match against Honduras on Thursday in Glasgow.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Abdelaziz Barrada of Morocco celebrates after scoring during a Group D soccer match against Honduras on Thursday in Glasgow.
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Security personnel patrol in front of Olympic Park in London on Thursday, a day ahead of the opening ceremony. Security concerns surfaced when a private contractor failed to provide enough staff. As a result, the government is deploying 18,200 troops to remedy the shortfall.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Security personnel patrol in front of Olympic Park in London on Thursday, a day ahead of the opening ceremony. Security concerns surfaced when a private contractor failed to provide enough staff. As a result, the government is deploying 18,200 troops to remedy the shortfall.
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The Honduras men's soccer team celebrates after scoring a goal against Morocco during a first-round match Thursday.
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Olympics get under way – The Honduras men's soccer team celebrates after scoring a goal against Morocco during a first-round match Thursday.
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Honduras' Jose Velasquez, left, gets challenged by Zakaria Labyad of Morocco during Thursday's match.
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Olympics get under way – Honduras' Jose Velasquez, left, gets challenged by Zakaria Labyad of Morocco during Thursday's match.
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Police patrol Westfield Stratford City shopping mall near London Olympic Park on Thursday.
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Olympics get under way – Police patrol Westfield Stratford City shopping mall near London Olympic Park on Thursday.
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Spectators gather as the Olympic torch is carried from Islington Town Hall on Thursday. London cheered on the torch as it made its way past the city's historic landmarks.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Spectators gather as the Olympic torch is carried from Islington Town Hall on Thursday. London cheered on the torch as it made its way past the city's historic landmarks.
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Amanda Clark of the U.S. sailing team chats with reporters Thursday during a press conference in Weymouth, England.
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Olympics get under way – Amanda Clark of the U.S. sailing team chats with reporters Thursday during a press conference in Weymouth, England.
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Kim Song Hui of North Korea executes a bicycle kick while challenged by Natalia Ariza of Colombia during the first-round women's football competition at Hampden Park on Wednesday, July 25, in Glasgow, Scotland.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Kim Song Hui of North Korea executes a bicycle kick while challenged by Natalia Ariza of Colombia during the first-round women's football competition at Hampden Park on Wednesday, July 25, in Glasgow, Scotland.
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Tower Bridge, adorned with the Olympic rings, is seen late Wednesday, two days before the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Olympics get under way – Tower Bridge, adorned with the Olympic rings, is seen late Wednesday, two days before the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Hazleydi Rincon of Colombia and Kim Song Hui of North Korea chase the ball in a first-round women's football match.
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Olympics get under way – Hazleydi Rincon of Colombia and Kim Song Hui of North Korea chase the ball in a first-round women's football match.
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Brazil's Marta is in action with Cameroon's goalkeeper Annette Ngo Ndom during the first-round women's football competition at Millennium Stadium on Wednesday.
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Olympics get under way – Brazil's Marta is in action with Cameroon's goalkeeper Annette Ngo Ndom during the first-round women's football competition at Millennium Stadium on Wednesday.
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North Korea's Kim Song Hui, in white, vies with Colombia's Natalia Ariza on July 25.
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Olympics get under way – North Korea's Kim Song Hui, in white, vies with Colombia's Natalia Ariza on July 25.
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North Korea's Jon Myong Hwa, in white, vies with Colombia's Sandra Sepulveda, in green, and Orianica Velasquez , in yellow, during first-round women's soccer play at Hampden Park on July 25.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – North Korea's Jon Myong Hwa, in white, vies with Colombia's Sandra Sepulveda, in green, and Orianica Velasquez , in yellow, during first-round women's soccer play at Hampden Park on July 25.
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South African footballers hold a pennant as they line up before their first-round women's soccer match against Sweden on July 25 at The City of Coventry Stadium in Coventry, England.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – South African footballers hold a pennant as they line up before their first-round women's soccer match against Sweden on July 25 at The City of Coventry Stadium in Coventry, England.
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North Korean soccer coach Gun Sin Ui, at center in red shirt, waits for his team's match to begin at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday, July 25. The first-round match against Colombia was delayed.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – North Korean soccer coach Gun Sin Ui, at center in red shirt, waits for his team's match to begin at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday, July 25. The first-round match against Colombia was delayed.
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North Korean official Son Kwang-ho waits for the match against Colombia to begin.
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Olympics get under way – North Korean official Son Kwang-ho waits for the match against Colombia to begin.
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Brazil's Marta, No. 10, is tackled by Christine Manie of Cameroon during the first-round women's soccer match on July 25.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Brazil's Marta, No. 10, is tackled by Christine Manie of Cameroon during the first-round women's soccer match on July 25.
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U.S. player Megan Rapinoe jumps on teammate Alex Morgan, No. 13, after Morgan scored during their Group G Olympic women's soccer match against France at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday, July 25.
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Olympics get under way – U.S. player Megan Rapinoe jumps on teammate Alex Morgan, No. 13, after Morgan scored during their Group G Olympic women's soccer match against France at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday, July 25.
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American Carli Lloyd celebrates with teammate Amy Le Peilbet after scoring her team's third goal.
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Olympics get under way – American Carli Lloyd celebrates with teammate Amy Le Peilbet after scoring her team's third goal.
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Katie Hoyle, left, of New Zealand and teammate Betsy Hassett challenge Karen Carney of Great Britain during their match in the first round of women's soccer in the London 2012 Olympic Games at Millennium Stadium on Wednesday, July 25, in Cardiff, Wales.
Photos: Photos: Olympics get under way
Olympics get under way – Katie Hoyle, left, of New Zealand and teammate Betsy Hassett challenge Karen Carney of Great Britain during their match in the first round of women's soccer in the London 2012 Olympic Games at Millennium Stadium on Wednesday, July 25, in Cardiff, Wales.
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Sarah Gregorius of New Zealand reacts after Karen Bardsley of Great Britain saves the ball, barring her from scoring a goal.
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Olympics get under way – Sarah Gregorius of New Zealand reacts after Karen Bardsley of Great Britain saves the ball, barring her from scoring a goal.
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Britain's Stephanie Houghton celebrates a goal, adding the first point to the scoreboard, with teammate Ifeoma Diek.
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Olympics get under way – Britain's Stephanie Houghton celebrates a goal, adding the first point to the scoreboard, with teammate Ifeoma Diek.
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An Olympic lane at the Embankment in London.
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The Olympic competition begins – An Olympic lane at the Embankment in London.
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France's Louisa Necib, left, is challenged by American Carli Lloyd.
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The Olympic competition begins – France's Louisa Necib, left, is challenged by American Carli Lloyd.
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Amber Hearn of New Zealand shoots for a goal.
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The Olympic competition begins – Amber Hearn of New Zealand shoots for a goal.
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Casey Stoney of Great Britain goes up against Katie Hoyle of New Zealand.
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The Olympic competition begins – Casey Stoney of Great Britain goes up against Katie Hoyle of New Zealand.
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Britain's Anita Asante kicks off the match with Kelly Smith between Great Britain and New Zealand.
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The Olympic competition begins – Britain's Anita Asante kicks off the match with Kelly Smith between Great Britain and New Zealand.
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A fan shows his support during the soccer match between Great Britain and New Zealand on Wednesday.
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The Olympic competition begins – A fan shows his support during the soccer match between Great Britain and New Zealand on Wednesday.
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Fans have their choice of Great Britain merchandise before the soccer games begin.
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The Olympic competition begins – Fans have their choice of Great Britain merchandise before the soccer games begin.
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The London Olympics logo in the equestrian arena in Greenwich, London, is seen behind a worker on a lift.
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The Olympic competition begins – The London Olympics logo in the equestrian arena in Greenwich, London, is seen behind a worker on a lift.
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A South Korean news crew reports from in front of the Tower Bridge where Olympics Rings hang.
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The Olympic competition begins – A South Korean news crew reports from in front of the Tower Bridge where Olympics Rings hang.
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Badminton player Nathan Robertson poses during the handover of the Olympic Torch at Wembley Stadium two days before the Opening Ceremony.
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The Olympic competition begins – Badminton player Nathan Robertson poses during the handover of the Olympic Torch at Wembley Stadium two days before the Opening Ceremony.
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The organizers of the London Games were well aware they had a tough act to follow after the Beijing extravaganza four years ago, which featured thousands of drummers, acrobats, martial artists and dancers performing under a light display at the soaring "Bird's Nest" Stadium.
Some details of the £27 million show were released in advance, but many more remained closely guarded secrets.
A Twitter hashtag, #savethesurprise, started by Olympic organizers to appeal to those in the know not to spoil the show for others, had been embraced by many, although not all.
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Giant screens also displayed the message within the stadium during the two rehearsals. Those who opted not to play along incurred the social-media wrath of many who did want to "save the surprise."
The show, masterminded by artistic director Danny Boyle, best known for the Oscar-winning film "Slumdog Millionaire," drew part of its inspiration from Shakespeare's "The Tempest."
It began at 9 p.m. (4 p.m. ET) with the tolling of the largest harmonically tuned bell in Europe, cast by the nearby Whitechapel Foundry, which also produced Big Ben and the Liberty Bell. The sound echoed the peals of bells that rang out across the country for three minutes Friday morning, Big Ben among them, to set the nation's Olympic spirit racing.
The show's opening scene -- dubbed "Green and Pleasant," after a line from a poem by William Blake -- then unfurled, presenting an idyllic view of the British countryside.
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The elaborate set comprised rolling hills, fields and rivers, complete with picnicking families, sport being played on a village green and real farmyard animals: ducks, geese, 12 horses, three cows and 70 sheep, plus three sheepdogs to keep them in line.
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The flower of each of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom also were represented -- the rose of England, the Scottish thistle, Welsh daffodil and flax from Northern Ireland.
Boyle also lined up fake clouds to shade his pastoral scene.
Other set pieces paid tribute to Britain's National Health Service, children's literature (showcasing characters from the evil Lord Voldemort of Harry Pottery infamy to magical nanny Mary Poppins) and popular music.
It was all a mammoth production involving not just Boyle and his technical crew, but also a cast of 10,000 adult volunteers and 900 local schoolchildren. Then there was a heavy-duty flying system, nearly 13,000 props and an array of technological wizardry.
After these performances, the athletes -- who, after all, are the real stars of the Olympic show -- entered the stadium, team by team in alphabetical order, apart from Greece, which enters first in recognition of its status as the birthplace of the Games, and Great Britain, entering last, the position reserved for the host nation.
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After speeches from Olympic officials -- including Sebastian Coe, head of the London organizing committee and himself a former gold medalist -- the queen officially declared the Games open and the Olympic flag was later hoisted above the stadium, where it will fly throughout the competition.
The grand finale saw five-time gold medalist rower Steve Redgrave carry the torch into the stadium, where he handed the flame off to seven promising young athletes. They then lit parts of the large cauldron, triggering a chain of events that culminated in small flames converging in the sky above the stadium.
This capped the torch's 70-day, 8,000-mile relay around the United Kingdom -- weeks that had been marked with anticipation.
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