When the modern Olympics were revived in 1896, artists, musicians, and writers competed for medals right alongside the athletes, just as they had done in ancient Greece. The practice was dropped in 1948, but host cities are still required to present an arts festival along with the sporting events. Although a lack of sponsorship and poor ticket sales have dampened Sydney’s plans for next month’s event at the Summer Games, the lineup is still impressive – 70% of the artists involved are Australian. – The Sunday Times (UK) 08/27/00