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They're promising a show the likes of which Newcastle has never seen.
They are a 200-strong dance troupe accompanying a star-studded line-up including Human Nature, Marcia Hines and Anthony Callea to kick-off the Special Olympics, which is now only a month away.
Hines and the Games’ opening ceremony creative director, John Foreman, gathered yesterday at Hunter Stadium with some of the dance team who are putting the finishing touches to the show.
‘‘It will be a fantastic opportunity for Newcastle to hold its head high and showcase what the city is capable of on the world stage,’’ Mr Foreman said.
‘‘Having grown up here I’m thrilled to be back in this beautiful city, which has blossomed so fantastically over the past decade.’’
He said the ceremony would be something ‘‘the likes of which Newcastle has never seen before’’.
Ms Hines said she was humbled to be performing at the Games with a 200-person strong dance team accompanying her.
‘‘The great thing about it all is that it’s all so heartfelt, the volunteers running this are just doing absolutely great’’, Ms Hines says.
‘‘I’m always proud to be in Newcastle but I am particularly proud today.’’
Yesterday’s sneak preview of the opening ceremony was a lively array of dancers, stars and ambassadors, including Hines, a troupe of young tap dancers and athlete ambassadors.
More than 2000 athletes, 600 coaches and officials, 4000 volunteers and an estimated 20,000 spectators will flock to Newcastle from more than 32 countries on December 1 for the opening ceremony.
Human Nature will headline the two-hour celebration of music, dance, fireworks, colour and pageantry.
Belinda Prince, a swimmer from New Lambton, will compete in four events at the games including the 100metres breaststroke, 200metres breaststroke, 100metres individual medley and the relay.
She said she’s looking forward to Newcastle being showcased on the world stage.
‘‘It will be great for athletes from all over the world to come and experience our wonderful city,’’ she said.
Tickets to the opening ceremony range from $35 to $65 for adults, with a variety of family tickets from $44 to $120.