In pictures: Rio’s stunning Olympic opening ceremony

The 31st Olympic games was opened with a stunning open ceremony in Rio’s famous Maracana stadium tonight. The build-up to the opening ceremony has been blighted by protests over Brazil’s decision to splash out on the spectacle given the country’s ongoing recession. Spectators were told to expect a ‘cool’ ceremony focusing on substance rather than style and audiences were treated to portrayals of Brazil’s early beginnings before messages about climate change. Many in Britain were slightly confused by the opening ceremony but there’s no doubting the organisers put on a show… The British public watched on patiently for the arrival of Team GB, who were led out by three-time tennis Grand Slam champion Andy Murray. He boldly walked around the stadium holding the Union Flag aloft with just one hand in a performance which has been hailed a triumph. via IFTTT

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