I think mostly the Chinese takes events like this way too seriously, so they put on a hell of a show but it's all been done before.

Also I don't think it was their intention to re-do the Nikki Webster schtick, since kids are pretty much a staple in ceremonies like these - "look at us! We're cute and fluffy so you could totally overlook the fact that we're communists and are spreading propaganda through your TV :D :D :D"

The kid from Sichuan who came out with Yao Ming at the end was so cute, though.