Earlier this month, we learned that the construction of the Eurovision 2021 stage had begun. Following this news, more and more details of what to expect next month began to be revealed. Now, the stage has been constructed, with the first delegations due to arrive in Rotterdam next week.
Eurovision.tv have shared new photos of the constructed stage, as technical rehearsals begin in AHOY. Between now and next weekend, aspects such as LEDs, camera cuts and lighting will be tested. These tests will be conducted in preparation of the official start of rehearsals on Saturday May 8th.
While many elements of the 2020 stage have been incorporated, Florian Wieder’s stage design has been adapted to the reduced audience. With a maximum of 20% of AHOY’s capacity being permitted by the government, the overall stage has been moved forward and the green room has been enlarged to cover the standing area.
The image gallery shows a rotating LED door, which can be utilised by the acts, along with several different lighting options. The true adaptability of the stage will be revealed next weekend as rehearsals begin!
Audience confirmed for Eurovision 2021
Even under a Scenario B situation, delegations will be spending most of their time in hotel quarantine outside of rehearsals in order to minimise transmission risks.
We have asked them to stay in the hotel and only use our official transport. In this way we hope to keep the virus out as much as possible.
Sietse Bakker, Executive Producer of the Eurovision Song Contest 2021
Bakker also confirmed that the current plan is for 3,500 spectators to be in the audience, with 4,500 seats remaining empty. However, in practice this means that the second tier of seating will not be visible on the broadcast. Plans for the audience have since been confirmed by the Dutch government.
We think that those 3,500 people can also create a fantastic atmosphere.
Sietse Bakker, Executive Producer of the Eurovision Song Contest 2021
However, with the news of Montaigne and the Australian delegation opting to not travel to Rotterdam, not all acts will be making it to the AHOY stage. Last week, the city of Rotterdam has decided to cancel plans for an in-person Eurovision Village due to the ongoing pandemic. A virtual alternative will take place instead.
Are you excited for rehearsals to begin? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to follow us on Spotify and YouTube to see our reactions to the news in the run up to Rotterdam!