This article forms part of the OnEurope archive and was originally published on oneurope.co.uk. It has been permanently migrated to oneurope.net, the official home of OnEurope.
Just when you think you know this Contest, it throws another curve-ball. I hadn’t seen Armenia’s qualification coming at all and was stunned when they went through in the hall last night. I was disappointed by the booing, though: there really is no need for that.
The rest of the result didn’t surprise me, and I managed to pick eight out of ten qualifiers. My biggest disappointment was Macedonia failing to make it. Perhaps they should have stuck with the original song?
The atmosphere in the hall was fantastic. We managed to get right by the satellite stage and had a great view of the sections that took place there. It was electric—one of the best semi-final atmospheres I’ve experienced.
In the most civilised arrangement imaginable, the arena has a bar and a DJ playing once the show dies out. That meant we could enjoy a quick beer and miss the crowds on the train.
Afterwards we headed to Wonk, the gay club that has taken over an enormous venue for the week and booked some great acts. Last night it was Martin Rolinski of BWO, whom I love, so it was a real treat. The problem was that the venue was all but empty, with perhaps 100 people there at most.
With the excellent Fan Cafe and all the fan access to the EuroClub, charging such high entrance prices has left Wonk having to reduce its ticket prices. Even then, attendance was low, which is a real shame given the effort they’ve made. Still, Charlotte Perrelli is appearing this evening, followed by an exclusive deal with Loreen on Saturday, so that should pack them in.
Today has begun lazily, although I’ve just recorded the podcast for escinsight.com, so look out for that later. I’m going into the hall to see the first rehearsal and get a better idea of how the running order looks.
I’m still not a fan of the “arrangement” of the order, and I’m disappointed to see Bonnie in 15th place. The end of the show is undoubtedly a cracker, though, with all the big guns coming one after another. With no ex-Yugoslav countries taking part, I expect Greece and Italy to benefit enormously, and it’s a very nice position for Ireland.
It’s all a bit hectic today, but I’ll try to come back with some thoughts after the first run-through. Hopefully we’ll also get to hear that specially composed number by Benny and Björn.
Monty x
