{mosimage}Czech President Vaclav Klaus and Czech Minister of Culture Jiri Besser were also present for the opening which was hosted as usual by Czech star Marek Eben.

This year’s edition of the festival is the first under the direction of Karel Och as artistic director and the opening ceremony started with a simulated attack on Karlovy Vary by aliens from outer space. More surprises are expected throughout the event as Och takes the helm while long time former artistic director Eva Zaoralova was still very much present in her new role as Artistic Consultant. Krystof Much continues as executive director.