Day 3: Is Alexander Rybak edging towards a second victory? – REVIEW

ESCXTRA are live from Lisbon for day 3 of rehearsals ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest 2018! The countries rehearsing today, in chronological order, are Norway, Romania, Serbia, San Marino, Denmark, Russia, Moldova, The Netherlands and Australia.

We’re streaming live from the press centre

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 Altice Arena by visiting our YouTube channel.
The first artist to rehearse is Alexander Rybak for Norway. We have just watched their first run through of That’s How You Write A Song live on screen and here is our initial reaction.

Staging

If you have seen Alexander’s Melodi Grand Prix performance, you pretty much have seen this performance. If not, Alexander starts with various on-screen graphics, which he interacts with. These include a virtual piano, violin and football. As the first chorus begins, Alexander is joined by two male and two female dancers. The whole performance uses blue and pink lighting.
Alexander does have a couple of head microphone issues, but continues without a hitch. Of course, he plays his violin during the instrumental part towards the end of the song.

Vocals

Alexander’s vocals are perfect and blend well with his backing vocalists.

Costumes

Alexander is wearing a dark blue shirt and black trousers. He wears a blue jacket for the first half of the song too. Overall, the majority of his outfit is identical to what he wore in Melodi Grand Prix. His dancers are in blue and black outfits which could be described as casual smart, with combinations of shirts and trousers.

Watch the rehearsal!

Stay tuned for our reaction to The Humans as they rehearse Goodbye next for Romania. If you want to know what to expect for the rest of the day, check out our rehearsal schedule here. Meanwhile, remember to tune in to our live stream from the press centre for instant reactions to each rehearsal.