escXtra are live from Kyiv for day one of rehearsals ahead of the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest! The countries rehearsing today, in chronological order, are Sweden, Georgia, Australia, Albania, Belgium, Montenegro, Finland, Azerbaijan and Portugal. Furthermore, read our handy guide for a more detailed look at this contest’s rehearsal schedule.
In addition, for our immediate reactions to every single rehearsal, you can follow our live stream from the press centre at the International Exhibition Center by visiting our YouTube channel.
The latest artist to rehearse is Blanche from Belgium. We have just watched her first run through of City Lights live on screen and here is our initial reaction.
Summary in a sentence
Belgium appear to be making changes to their performance with each rehearsal run through that we saw today. As it stands, we aren’t sure exactly what we will see from Belgium when they come to a second rehearsal later this week.
Staging
The staging is simple but effective. There is wonderful hand choreography (I’m a total sucker for hand choreography) and Blanche stands in the centre of the stage allowing the graphics to envelope her.
Vocals
The vocal here is as strong as ever for Belgium, no surprises there. The vocal mix is good too, which is great to hear.
Costumes
Blanche isn’t wearing her stage outfit today.
Watch the rehearsal!
Stay tuned for our reaction to Slavko Kalezić as he rehearses Space next for Montenegro. Meanwhile, remember to tune in to our live stream from the press centre for instant reactions to each rehearsal.
Comments on Day 1: Blanche completes first rehearsal for Belgium – REVIEW