While the selected singers in all the different countries are preparing their stage performances and the selection committees are in full swing to find the perfect song, the organisers of this year’s 65th Eurovision Song Contest evaluating the possible scenarios with the big aim to bring all the singers safely on stage in Rotterdam.

In the latest conference NPO, NOS and AVROTROS together with the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) the outcome is to work on a safety concept for all people involved e.g. singers, delegations, technical staff and press. Like other sport events e.g. the Australian Open with strict health regularities it’s a realistic way to proceed in the execution of the live event on stage in the Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam in May.

The key to reach the goal is a continuing testing, before and during the visit in Rotterdam, throughout the event. It also means that the delegations won’t be able to leave their hotels, unless there are official activities like rehearsals and live shows.

Martin Österdahl (ESC Executive Producer) said:

“The spirit and tradition of the Eurovision Song Contest is about uniting Europe on one stage and we are very much still determined to achieve this in Rotterdam in May. We are moving forward with our plans to produce a safe Eurovision Song Contest, with all artists performing live in Rotterdam. This protocol demonstrates our commitment to make this happen, with the health and safety of everyone attending, including crew and press, our top priority.”

Furthermore Sietse Bakker (Executive Producer of the show) adds:

“Our goal is clear: to prevent transmission of the virus during the event. If someone tests positive, our isolation protocol comes into effect, we support the relevant authorities with track and trace research and we take additional measures where necessary. If a participant is unable to perform live as a result, the backup recording will be used.”

This means that in any case the pandemic is getting worse the backup recordings will help to ensure a smooth broadcast. At the moment “scenario B” is in focus, this means that audience might be allowed, the press centre will be smaller and public activities will be limited. The whole thing can be scaled down further.

The entire ESC 2021 is going to be different than it used to be. Everything is based on a comprehensive health and safety measurement and social distancing. But the show will go on, no matter what comes, there is a solution for every case.

Author: Bernd LemmermannEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Public relations, Editor, Journalist

About me:
As one of the founders of eurovisionlive.com I am responsible for the interviews with the singers and the editorial content. My passion for the Eurovision Song Contest exists since my early childhood. The exotic music, different cultures and languages have given a lot of inspiration to me. Since my very first ESC in Dublin 1994 I particularly appreciate the get together and friendship of all the nationalities and Riverdance was a thrill!