World-Class Producers for FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 Opening And Closing Ceremony Announced
14 May 2009
 
The 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) today announced the internationally renowned VWV Consortium as service providers to produce the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 opening and closing ceremonies

With exactly one month to the kick-off of the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 at Johannesburg's Ellis Park Stadium on 14 June 2009 the OC today announced at a media briefing that the eagerly-anticipated ceremonies for the tournament - to be broadcast worldwide as part of the opening and final match - will be produced by the VWV Consortium, comprising the VWV Group and Till Dawn Entertainment, along with Associate Producers Jack Morton Worldwide.

“It is indeed a privilege and an honour to help South Africa raise the curtain on this incredible moment in our history,” said Abey Mokgwatsane, CEO of VWV.

“We look forward to delivering uniquely African ceremonies that will set the stage for a truly world-class event,” added entertainment industry icon Lebo M, CEO of Till Dawn Entertainment. Lebo M is a Grammy Award winner and co-producer of the Lion King South Africa – the globally acclaimed production that saw record attendances in theatres around the world.

Jack Morton Worldwide served as production consultants for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games ceremonies and produced the opening and closing ceremonies for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, brings global experience to the team.

“We at the Organising Committee are delighted to announce the VWV Consortium as service providers for the FIFA Confederations Cup opening and closing ceremonies. Lebo M is a true South African and indeed global entertainment industry icon. We are delighted that he will bring his creativity and incredible talent to the tournament. Jack Morton bring global experience to the team and we are sure these ceremonies will be distinctly African and world class,” said OC CEO Dr Danny Jordaan at the briefing, which also showcased the OC's transport, security and tournament plans.

A total of 351 121 tickets have now been sold of the 640 000 available for the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009.

“We approach the tournament with confidence. Our stadiums are ready, our transport and security plans have been fine-tuned and more than 4000 volunteers have been trained in preparation for the first major FIFA tournament on African soil. We know we still have much to do, but I can assure you we will not disappoint,” said Jordaan.

The tournament, involving the champions of the six FIFA Confederations, as well as FIFA World Cup holders Italy and hosts South Africa, kicks off on 14 June 2009 with a match between South Africa and Asian champions Iraq.