Sochi: The Winter Olympics in Sochi officially got under way yesterday with a lavish opening ceremony designed as a depiction of the history of Russia as seen through the dreams of a young girl — although much of the focus was on the pre-show performance of controversial pop act t.A.T.u.

Fireworks illuminate the Fisht Olympic Stadium during the Opening Ceremony of the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics yesterday. Pic/Getty Images.