It’s Eurovision time again and following Azerbaijan’s win in 2011 with “Running Scared” sung by Eldar and Nigar this year’s contest takes place in the Crystal Hall in Baku. The Eurovision is the world’s biggest song contest and every year an estimated 125 million viewers tune in.
Since 2008, the Eurovision Song Contest consists of three live shows, aired prime-time to millions of homes across Europe. During two semi-finals, viewers and juries across Europe determine which countries will be represented in the final. Ten countries from each semi-final will qualify for the final and will be joined by Azerbaijan, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.
The two semi finals take place on Tuesday May 22nd and Thursday May 24th on RTÉ Two. Ireland are the last performing act in the first semi final. The final will be covered live on RTÉ One on Saturday 26 May from 8.00pm.
Jedward were selected to represent Ireland at the 57th Eurovision Song Contest in Baku with their song “Waterline” composed by Swedish songwriter Nick Jarl and Sharon Vaughan.
Marty Whelan will provide commentary for Irish viewers.