Svante Stockselius, the European Broadcasting Union's supervisor of the contest, and Ludo Porrez, executive producer of this year's Junior Eurovision Song Contest, gave a press conference moments ago. Esctoday.com, of course, was present!
The show
Both the EBU as well as the host broadcasters VRT and RTBF are happy with the highly professional level of the organisation. “The Junior Eurovision Song Contest has the potential to exist for many years”, Stockselius said. “Maybe 50 more, maybe not, but I do hope so”, he added.
The opening of the show will feature a parade of all participants of this year's Junior Eurovision Song Contest, entering the venue in order of appearance. Drummers will be hanging in the ceiling to give the opening a spectaculair vibe! About the participants, Stockselius said: “All kids are very happy with the organisation, you can see that in their faces”.
Televoting
Although Cyprus withdrew from the contest right before the draw for the running order last month, the country will get the chance to vote. Cyprus will be the first country giving points. For the first time, the hosts will read out the points 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 given by a country, then a connection will be made with the spokesperson to give the other points. “This procedure has been extensively rehearsed with the hosts”, Porrez added.
Interval act
“During the interval act, dancers of Cirque du Soleil will be on stage of the Ethias Arena”, Ludo Porrez revealed during the press conference. Maria Isabel will join them later on. Several surprises are being prepared, among them a special fireworks show created by a Belgian company. Read more about Cirque du Soleil on the official website.
Stockselius again expressed his wish to see Italy back at the Eurovision Song Contest, in this case at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest as well. When asked if he could mention any countries interested to participate, he answered: “I cannot mention any countries (…), but the interest is big”.
Have a look at our photo gallery of the press conference here!
