Rehearsals for the first semi-final are underway today as the 18 participants return to the arena for a second time! We here at ESCToday are ready to bring you the latest news live from the arena itself.

Next onstage today is Sergey Lazarev, performing in a fully black outfit this afternoon.

Sergey performs alongside 4 male vocalists/dancers and 1 female performer. A powerful use of the LED screens and graphic effects are used throughout the entire Russian performance; Sergey is constantly on the move on the stage with strong choreography.

Check out Russia’s second rehearsal below!

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Rehearsals continue this afternoon with the Czech Republic, Cyprus and Austria before another break takes place.

Photo: Andreas Putting ©


Jessica was born and raised in the United Kingdom. Eurovision has been a huge part of her life for a number of years, getting to see the contest live for the first time in 2015. Jessica joined the ESCToday team in November 2013.