The final preparations are underway for the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler.
Performers from local high schools were put through their paces on Sunday afternoon at Vancouver Technical school’s gym, as they prepared to play their part in the opening ceremony this upcoming weekend.
Students said they are looking forward to the experience of a lifetime on Saturday, ahead of the competition aimed at supporting wounded, injured and sick veterans.
“I’m really excited to perform in front of such a big audience,” Invictus dance core member and Grade 12 student Lauren Fung told CTV News.
“I’ve never performed for such a large crowd and especially in such an amazing opening ceremony, with so many incredible artists like Katy Perry and Roxane Bruneau.”
According to the students, the intricate routines have been grueling, but rewarding to learn.
“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to get to dance with such incredible artists and with such wonderful performers,” said Eliana Lim, a Grade 1O student and one of the performers.
Given the scale of the event, those overseeing the performance believe this is a moment that will stick with these young people in the years to come.
“When they go into that stadium and they’re going to see 35,000 people cheering for not only the competitors, but cheering for their community and the performers in the show, that’s when they’re going to know - this is a lifelong memory for them for sure,” said Patrick Roberge, director of the games’ opening and closing ceremonies.
It was sentiment echoed by Grade 12 student Julia Ireland, who told CTV, “it’s been amazing. It’s been such an honour dancing with some amazing dancers and choreographers. The excitement that’s been building up in preparation for this has been really amazing so far.”
Beyond the challenging environment, it’s also been an opportunity for the performers to meet new people.
“The long rehearsals have been a challenge, but they’re great,” said Grade 12 student Seaera Smith.
“I feel like dancing with people I haven’t danced with before has been challenging, but it’s been such an amazing experience meeting those people…dancing has been such a passion for me, so to spread that joy with a bunch of people I’m really looking forward to, and to also dance along Katy Perry and also Roxane Bureau – I’m really looking forward to that.”
Tickets for Saturday’s opening ceremony at BC Place are still available, and will feature major music stars, including Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
