The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 has taken center stage in Basel, Switzerland, as vibrant dress rehearsals kick off for the highly anticipated first semi-final.
As fans eagerly await the culmination of weeks of preparation, the day’s schedule promises a spectacular showcase with two distinct rehearsal sessions.
Starting at 15:30 CEST, the first set of rehearsals will feature the talented 15 semi-finalists, while the evening session at 21:00 CEST will serve as the crucial jury show.
This unique opportunity allows live reporting through outlets like Eurovoix, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at each performance, including special appearances by the pre-qualified finalists from Italy, Spain, and host nation Switzerland.
In addition to the thrilling performances, significant changes have been introduced to the voting system for 2025, aimed at enhancing fairness and accessibility.
Traditionally, juries accounted for 50% of the semi-final results.
However, this year, their votes will only count in the event of complications with audience voting, thereby prioritizing fan engagement.
Juror selection is rigorous, ensuring diversity in professional expertise and representation, with members committing to evaluate performances based on key factors such as composition, vocal prowess, and overall presentation.
To widen the event’s reach, an exciting feature has been launched for global participation—an online voting portal for the ‘Rest of the World’.
Opening its doors right after the jury show, this option will not only encourage international fans to get involved but also requires them to watch clips of performances before voting.
Each vote is priced at
0.99 Euro, further underscoring the contest’s global spirit.
With these engaging elements at play, Eurovision 2025 promises to be a landmark event as it blends tradition with innovation.
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Key Takeaways
- Live rehearsals for Eurovision 2025 showcase performances from semi-finalists and pre-qualified countries.
- Voting changes now require jury votes to only count in case of audience voting issues, emphasizing fair and diverse judging.
- Global audiences can participate through online voting, allowing international fans to engage with the competition.
Live Rehearsals and Performances
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is in full swing in Basel, Switzerland, and the excitement is palpable as the first semi-final approaches.
Currently, live rehearsals are taking place, giving a sneak peek into the performances of the 15 semi-finalists along with Italy, Spain, and Switzerland, who have automatically qualified for this year’s contest.
The day is structured into two rehearsal sets; the first begins at 15:30 CEST, followed by the jury show at 21:00 CEST.
Given the significance of these rehearsals, Eurovoix will be providing live updates, offering insights into the stage presence and vocal prowess of each act as they prepare for their big moment.
In terms of the voting process, while the jury typically contributes 50% to the final results in the semi-finals, this year introduces noteworthy adjustments.
Jurors from both the competing and pre-qualified countries will cast their votes, but intriguingly, those votes will only be counted if issues arise with the audience voting.
The selection of jurors is meticulous; they must adhere to specific criteria related to their professional experience, ensuring a balanced representation of gender and age.
Each juror will rigorously evaluate performances based on a combination of song composition, overall impression, and the quality of singing and performance.
Moreover, to embrace a global audience, this year’s contest will enable international viewers to participate through an online voting system.
Following the jury show, the voting portal for the ‘Rest of the World’ will open and remain accessible until the close of the voting window during the live broadcast of Semi-Final One on May
13.
Voters will have the opportunity to view clips of the performances before making their decision, with each vote costing
0.99 Euro.
This interactive element not only enhances viewer engagement but also emphasizes Eurovision’s commitment to inclusivity and global participation.
Voting System Changes and Global Participation
The changes in the voting system for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 reflect a significant shift towards greater transparency and inclusivity.
By ensuring that jurors’ votes are reserved for situations where audience votes may be compromised, the contest aims to foster trust in its voting process.
Furthermore, the stringent criteria for jurors—including professional expertise and a commitment to diversity—set a standard that reinforces the integrity of the contest.
This evolution is complemented by the introduction of online voting, allowing fans from around the globe to play an active role.
As viewers become more involved, whether from within Europe or beyond, the Eurovision Song Contest not only showcases musical talent but also embodies a spirit of international camaraderie that transcends borders.
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