With Europe still affected by a significant COVID-19 wave, Estonian broadcaster ERR announced that the two semi-finals of Eesti Laul will move forward without an audience.
The shows are scheduled to take place on 3 and 5 February at Saku Suurhall in Tallinn and each feature a line-up of 10 songs. Among the participants of Eesti Laul are three former entrants, namely 2012 representative Ott Lepland, 2015 representative Stig Rästa and 2018 representative Elina Nechayeva. Semi-final ticket holders will have the opportunity to be reimbursed or purchase a ticket for the final at a reduced rate.
Estonia is not the first country that has adjusted their plans for the live shows as a result of the pandemic. Last week, Sweden announced the cancellation of the famous Melodifestivalen Tour, with all shows taking place in Stockholm.
Estonia at the Eurovision
Having debuted in 1994, Estonia has participated to Eurovision ever since for a total of 26 participations. The country’s best result is their victory in 2001 in Copenhagen with Tanel Padar, Dave Benton and 2XL ‘s “Everybody”. Since the introduction of the semi-finals, Estonia qualified for the grand final seven times, most recently in 2019. In 2021, Uku Suviste missed out qualifying finishing 13th with 58 points with his song “The Lucky One”.
Are you disappointed there will be no live audience during Eesti Laul’s semi-finals? Who do you hope will fly the Estonian flag in Turin?
Let us know in the comments below and on all social media platforms @ESCXTRA!
