At the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony, Lady Gaga delivered a captivating performance of the French classic “Mon Truc en Plumes,” a song originally performed by Zizi Jeanmaire in 1961. The performance, set along the banks of the River Seine, stood out as a celebration of French cabaret culture, paying homage to Paris’s artistic legacy. This marked a significant moment in the ceremony, as Gaga greeted the athletes and audience with “Bonsoir! Bienvenue à Paris!” – embracing the French language and culture.
Clad in a custom Dior ensemble, Lady Gaga’s wardrobe was a stunning blend of pink feathers and haute couture, echoing the glamorous aesthetic of French cabaret. Her outfit featured a feathered jacket, a sequined skirt, and a headpiece that evoked the grand tradition of Parisian performance art. Gaga was accompanied by a 17-piece band and a group of dancers who enhanced the spectacle with feathered pom-poms and fans, creating a visually stunning atmosphere along the riverbank
Gaga’s connection to French music is not new. She has previously performed Edith Piaf’s “La Vie en Rose” and explained in an Instagram post how deeply she resonates with French art and culture. Her performance of “Mon Truc en Plumes” was both a tribute to the iconic French ballerina Jeanmaire and a gesture of gratitude to France for its rich artistic heritage. Gaga remarked that she wanted the performance to celebrate French history in art, music, and theatre while honoring the athletes competing in the Games
The ceremony was not just about the music—it was part of a larger, breathtaking event. Athletes paraded down the Seine on boats, passing famous Parisian landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, in a unique take on Olympic tradition. This setup, outside of a traditional stadium, gave the Opening Ceremony a truly Parisian flair, immersing the world in the city’s beauty while embracing its cultural heritage
Lady Gaga’s performance was a high-energy blend of song, dance, and instrumental prowess, beginning with an elaborate dance routine and transitioning to a piano performance. Her vibrant energy and meticulous attention to detail, including choreography inspired by French dance traditions, helped set the tone for the Olympic Games, making it a standout moment in what was a truly memorable ceremony
The performance not only reflected Gaga’s artistic versatility but also demonstrated her ability to bridge cultures through music, making her a fitting choice to kick off one of the most globally watched events in the world.
