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Giant Olympic Rings launched on the River Thames
By London Olympics 2012
Feb 28, 2012 - 1:29:41 PM

Measuring 11 metres high by 25 metres wide, the Rings are travelling on a barge and will pass London landmarks including Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson today launched a set of giant Olympic Rings onto the River Thames as he announced a programme of cultural events to celebrate London 2012.

From 21 July – 9 September, live music, outdoor arts and 'pop up' events will take place throughout London. Ranging from an original fusion of ballet and film to a floating opera, the programme will provide extra opportunities to get involved with the London 2012 Festival

Boris Johnson was joined by Ruth Mackenzie, Director of the London 2012 Festival, to make the announcement.

He said: 'We're creating the biggest festival of outdoor arts ever to be seen in the capital, as well as fantastic new work that will throw new light on some of our city's lesser-known landmarks and hidden gems.

'Wherever you are you will feel a part of the 2012 celebrations and experience a summer like no other in one of the most exciting cities on earth.'

Free cultural events

As part of the London 2012 Festival, the Mayor has commissioned a series of free cultural events called Secrets: Hidden London. Taking place across the city, the programme includes a floating opera inspired by The Owl And The Pussycat and Like a Fish out of Water, an English National Ballet creation capturing the nostalgia of three of London's lidos.

London 2012 Festival Director Ruth Mackenzie said : 'With millions of free tickets and opportunities to take part, Londoners and tourists will truly have a summer like no other, thanks to the partnership between the Mayor's office and London 2012 Festival.'

Outdoor arts festival

Supported by Arts Council England, the Mayor has also created Showtime, London's biggest ever outdoor arts festival, which will see the best of outdoor performance brought to every borough.

Tony Hall, Chair of London 2012 Festival and Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House, said: 'As well as the London 2012 Festival, the Mayor of London’s programme of free cultural events across the whole of London gives every Londoner the opportunity to share in these celebrations wherever they live.'

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