The first day of rehearsals for this year's Eurovision Song Contest have taken place in the Netherlands.
The first seven countries participating in the first semi-final on May 18 were each given half an hour on the main stage at Rotterdam's Ahoy Arena for several run-throughs of their performances.
Ana Soklic, representing Slovenia with 'Amen', delivered one of the most impressive rehearsals of the day, with her powerful vocals complemented by simple but epic visuals on the big screen behind her.
Russia's Manizha premiered a bizarre stage performance of 'Russian Woman' that saw her zip around stage inside a motorised dress before emerging dressed in a jumpsuit.
Ireland aimed to dazzle - but perhaps ended up confusing - with its elaborate staging for Lesley Roy's 'Maps', which included a series of flip books and camera trickery that enabled miniature landscapes to appear much larger.
Also relying on visual magic was Vasil, representative for North Macedonia, whose torso illuminated with various special effects as he stood and sang the ballad 'Here I Stand'.
Flying the flag for Sweden was MelFest winner Tusse and his anthemic 'Million Voices', which saw him backed by an army of virtual dancers and a visual cacophony of strobe lighting.
Lithuania's The Roop, who will open the first semi-final with 'Discoteque', premiered a performance packed full of eccentric dance moves - including the classic Egyptian Twist - and garish yellow outfits.
Scheduled to perform but not present on the first day of rehearsals was Montaigne for Australia, who has not travelled to Europe due to coronavirus and will instead send in a taped performance.
The nine acts performing in the second half of the first semi-final - including current favourites Malta - will take to the stage on Sunday.
Media Mole will be covering events in Rotterdam live over Eurovision fortnight - stick with us for continuing updates!
Neil Wilkes
Follow us on Bluesky or on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
Media Mole's Lowest Ever Sky Offer: Get Sky Essential, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £15 a month + £0 upfront fee for 24 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends March 19, 2025
