This was published 12 years ago
Russia mocks itself at Sochi Closing Ceremony
Russia has shown its lighter side at the Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony, mocking an embarrassing hiccup from the Opening Ceremony when an illuminated Olympic ring failed to open.
The packed Fisht stadium on the Black Sea coast was in high spirits after the home nation earlier topped the medals table and roared in appreciation when hundreds of glittering performers formed four big rings and a small one, which then opened up.
Sochi threw a two and a half hour party to end the 2014 Games. (Getty Images)
Dancers reference the infamous moment that made worldwide headlines.
It was a light-hearted reference that triggered laughter and cheers.
The Closing Ceremony was themed 'Reflections of Russia'.
It was in honour of Russia's famed artist Marc Chagall.
It included a world of brides, dancers and fiddlers.
A big top circus took centre stage.
Clowns and acrobats sprang to life.
Sochi's was in stark contrast as it entertained for more than two hours.
Pianiast Denis Matsuev played part of Rachmaninov's second piano concerto.
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