Taking place at 8.30pm on 29 August, the Ceremony will be a celebration of the inspirational spirit of the Paralympic Games that challenges perceptions of human possibility.

'Homecoming of the Games'

The show is set to open with a fly past by ‘Aerobility’, a British charity that trains disabled people to become pilots, and will feature over 3,000 adult volunteers, over 100 child volunteers and a professional cast of over 100. 

Co-Artistic Director Bradley Hemmings said: ‘Jenny and I want our Ceremony to be both spectacular and deeply human at the same time.

'Having worked together in outdoor theatre over a number of years we’re determined that the Ceremony should speak from the heart, whilst rising to the emotional and historic occasion of the homecoming of the Paralympic Games.’

Host Boroughs to play major role

As a part of the east London Host Boroughs' involvement in the Ceremonies, students from Get Set network schools will be taking part as the under 16s Volunteer Performer Cast.

The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) has also confirmed that Barking and Dagenham will host a key rehearsal site for the Ceremonies.

From 19 May, 110 days of rehearsals will be held at a site in Dagenham, which will replicate the performance area in the Olympic Stadium.

LOCOG Chair Seb Coe said: ‘Jenny and Bradley’s spectacular Paralympic Opening Ceremony will be a great showcase of the skills and excellence of disabled artists. The London 2012 Ceremonies are truly global events, with billions of people across the world watching the four shows.’

Find out more about the Paralympic Games Ceremonies

Read the full media release