“On occasion of Indonesia 2018, the 3rd edition of the Asian Paralympic Games, Balich Worldwide Shows has been chosen to create and produce the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, together with the Indonesian company Royalindo Convention International. The Opening Ceremony of the most prestigious multi-sport event organized by the AsianOlympic Council, was hosted in Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

“We Are One” is representation of the spirit of the Indonesia 2018 Asian Para Games. The whole ceremony was conducted around a circle-shaped logo representing the harmony that is created by the many nations in Asia, shining as one and becoming an inspiration to the world. “We Are One” is also a philosophy, a manifesto of inclusive living. Humanity sets the tone for the whole ceremony, that centres around the idea of embracing differences and celebrating diversities.

The athletes are the soul of a ceremony that tells the story of their overcoming challenges powered by passion and strength. The slogan “Inspiring Spirit and Energy of Asia” aims to unite Asia, to motivate people to be positive, and to support social equality.

The stage design concept with its curved shape resembles the line of the equator that crosses the islands of Indonesia as the gems of the equator. Every Indonesian traditional architecture structure, motive and element is a combination of curves and lines that represents nature; rice paddy terraces, slanted hills and clouds in the sky. This bears the message that everything inspired from nature is manifested best in life.

After the official speeches one minute of silence was called by the President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodobefore the opening of the games to remember the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Sulawesi”.

FACTS AND FIGURES

FIRST ASIAN PARALYMPIC GAMES IN INDONESIA
CAST:
849 performers for 2,604 roles
PROPS: 4,816
SCENIC ELEMENTS: 18
COSTUMES: 1,304 (and 514 hats)
TEAM:
207 persons
SUPPLIERS:
1,000 persons
VOLUNTEERS: 8,000 (for the entire Indonesia 2018 Paralympic Games)

Executive Creative Director
Marco Balich

Creative Director
Anghela Aló

Executive Producer
Gianmaria Serra

Ceremony Producer
Laura Cappelli  

Photos by Luca Parisse

Source Text: Balichws.com