'I went backstage at Eurovision final and it was not what I expected'
I've not always been a Eurovision fan but in recent years have grown fond of the Song Contest and when it was announced it would take place in Liverpool in 2023, I was thrilled to have the chance to go behind-the-scenes.
I haven't always been a Eurovision enthusiast, but in recent years I've developed a soft spot for the Song Contest. So, when it was announced that Liverpool would be hosting the 2023 event, I was over the moon at the prospect of getting a behind-the-scenes look.
Here's a rundown of everything I discovered about the competition and the backstage happenings during the Grand Final.
Full dress rehearsal
The day before the Grand Final, I joined other press members in line to enter the arena for the first dress rehearsal. No effort is spared as both presenters and performers give their all during each practice run.
Since this was the initial rehearsal, we were asked to keep mum about surprise acts, some of which weren't unveiled until the eleventh hour, reports the Daily Star.
A full dress rehearsal took place a day before the Grand Final
It was a thrill to sit in the audience and experience the full Grand Final a day ahead of the global broadcast. Despite being on the home stretch of the contest, all participants were still brimming with energy.
One unexpected aspect was seeing performers cheering on their peers from the audience before it was their turn to take centre stage. Even in the midst of competition, there was an overwhelming sense of camaraderie.
Backstage is a party
I had so much fun behind-the-scenes meeting formers contestants and celebrating all things Eurovision
On the night of the Grand Final, I secured a spot in the press area - essentially two large halls filled with desks - and geared up for a night of live blogging the contest.
Before the competition kicked off, I had the opportunity to mingle with past performers, indulge in a Eurovision cocktail and even shared my predictions on Greek radio!
As the Grand Final unfolded, amidst reporting on the performances and scores, the press marked the end of an intense week with a bit of a knees-up.
Remember Finland's Käärijä and their tune Cha Cha Cha? When they hit the stage, the press were up dancing and singing along. There was a palpable sense of excitement and celebration backstage.
And then, just like that, it's all over....
Back in 2023, Loreen won the Song Contest for Sweden with Tattoo
Typically, when Eurovision wraps up late at night, you switch off the telly and head to bed - or carry on partying. But for the winner, the night is far from over as they have a press conference to attend.
Back in 2023, Loreen clinched the Song Contest for Sweden with Tattoo. I expected her to be tired and worn out but she was still full of energy as she celebrated and bantered with journalists at the press conference.
And in the corridors backstage, those who didn't fare as well as Loreen were still buzzing and ready for a good old knees-up!
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