Eurovision is here! Delegations are now in Vienna and every semi-finalist has rehearsed once since Saturday. Today was the first day of second rehearsals, with most of the first semi-finalists rehearsing during shorter slots of 20m. The Eurovision socials accounts have been publishing the traditional second rehearsal videos, which are short extracts of the TV feed from each performance. The Eurovision website has also released new pictures for each rehearsal.
🇲🇩 Moldova – Satoshi – Second rehearsal
Check out our notes on the first rehearsal.
The new clip from Moldova is shot completely in close-up, shifting focus between Satoshi and his supporting team with a ‘shaky-cam’ effect. The backdrop features a miniature Satoshi before the LED and smoke machines burst into vintage Moldova. There will be no doubts in the viewers minds as to which country is performing on stage! It feels like watching the opening to a FIFA World Cup Final and that’s what you want from a Semi-Final opener to keep the viewers and audience engaged.
🇸🇪 Sweden – FELICIA – Second rehearsal
Check out our notes on the first rehearsal.
In true Swedish fashion, this almost a like-for-like recreation of the Melodifestivalen staging, with the extract showcasing the famous “giant FELICIA” effect. However, the red tones are much brighter than the national final version. During the dance-break there is now an inclusion of several “Hey!” chants. Obviously to break up the silence and bring more crowd interaction into the performance, giving the performance that arena feel.
From new stills released today, we can see more of the laser show that accompanies FELICIA and the dancers. Creating pink and purple tones when cast against the smoke machines behind them.
🇭🇷 Croatia – Lelek – Second rehearsal
Check out our notes on the first rehearsal.
In the newest clip for Croatia the camera angles cut as quickly as the build in the instrumental. The section is taken from the dramatic crescendo to the performance with action shots in close-up and wide angle frame to give each member their moment to shine. Meanwhile the drama of the ending sees plenty of usage from the smoke machines, wind machines and flame cannons.
In the latest images dropped today, we can see more detail in the tattoo designs that LELEK are using on their faces, arms and backs to convey the meaning behind their entry. Creating more connection to the symbolism in the LED backdrop for the storytelling of the historic suffering Catholic Croats face under the Ottoman Empire.
🇬🇷 Greece – Akylas – Second rehearsal
Check out our notes on the first rehearsal.
As touched on in the first rehearsal feedback, the immersive video game experience comes to life in the new footage. Akylas channels his character as the action lifts from the LED backdrop into the camera feed. The ending of the clip features a fun effect where Akylas passes through a tunnel as though he’s going to immerge in the living rooms of the viewers watching at home.
From the latest images revealed, we see the moving moment Akylas stops all the fun and games for a serious moment. The backdrop is lit up with an astral message to honour his mother. The full impact of this segment is realised in the wide shot of the stage with Akylas stood almost in a crucifix position as he takes it all in.
We will come back with more information on the next five contestants of the first semi-final, so stay tuned on ESCXTRA! And don’t forget, we will be on the ground, starting on May 10, to bring you all the latest from Vienna including the Turquoise Carpet, the dress rehearsals, and more.
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