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Inside the Olympics Closing Ceremony: Performances by Phoenix and Air, a ‘Science-Fiction’ Theme and More (EXCLUSIVE)

While spotlighting Lady Gaga and Celine Dion at the opening ceremony, the Olympics' closing bash will showcase two big French bands, Phoenix and Air.

While the Olympics ‘ opening ceremony showcased two North American superstars, Lady Gaga and Celine Dion, the closing bash will highlight two iconic French bands, Phoenix and Air, the event’s executive director Thierry Reboul confirmed to Variety in an interview. “We always have in mind to turn the spotlight on our country, of course.” Gaga, who had to pre-tape her performance in anticipation of pouring rain, indeed sang in French and paid tribute to Zizi Jeanmaire’s cabaret-inspired “Mon Truc en Plumes,” while Dion made an emotional comeback on stage with Edith Piaf’s “L’Hymne à l’amour.” Reboul declined to comment on Tom Cruise’s reported stunts and the rumored presence of Taylor Swift or Beyoncé at the closing ceremony, but he did tell Variety that the segment prepared by the Los Angeles organizing committee will last 10 to 15 minutes and will include some live elements.

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