US company to produce 2018 Commonwealth Games ceremonies

Organisers of the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games have defended a decision to hire an American company to produce the opening and closing ceremonies.

The organisers said the Boston-based business Jack Morton was contracted after a worldwide selection process.

Committee spokesman Marcus Hill said the company had been operating in Australia for decades and was best-suited for the job.

"They actually have range previous experiences have previously done the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow," he said.

"We are also confident they will work closely with the local community, contractors, the arts and cultural fraternity to actually deliver something that really showcases the Gold Coast."

Queensland's Commonwealth Games Minister Stirling Hinchliffe declined to comment on the appointment.

The Opposition said it was a slap in the face for Queensland and Australian businesses.

The 2018 Commonwealth Games will be held on the Gold Coast from April 4 to 15.

Source: ABC News