The Portuguese broadcaster RTP announced moments ago the rules and dates for Festival da Canção 2011. The Portuguese selection for Eurovision will feature one show, to be held on March 5th, comprising 12 songs, previously voted by the internet users.

All those interested in taking part can submit their entries until January 16th. A jury will then select 20-24 songs to proceed to the internet phase of the selection. The public will be able to vote for their favourites from January 20th to 27th.

The 12 most voted songs will qualify for the final of Festival da Canção, scheduled to be held on March 5th. The voting procedure will be made up by 20 regional juries (1 for each of the 18 Portuguese districts plus1 for Madeira and 1 for Açores) and televote at a 50% split.

The venue for the event will be Teatro Camões, in Lisbon.