MALMO, Sweden (AP) — Competition in the 68th Eurovision Song Contest kicks off Tuesday in Sweden, with the war in Gaza casting a shadow over the sequin-spangled pop extravaganza.
Performers representing countries across Europe and beyond will take the stage in the first of two semifinals in the Swedish city of Malmo. It and a second semifinal on Thursday will winnow a field of 37 nations to 26 who will compete in Saturday’s final against a backdrop of both parties and protests.
Among the 15 acts performing Tuesday are Croatian singer-songwriter Baby Lasagna, whose infectious electro number “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” is the current favorite to win, and Ukrainian duo alyona alyona and Jerry Heil, flying the flag for their war-battered nation with the anthemic “Teresa & Maria.”
Other bookmakers’ favorites include nonbinary Swiss singer Nemo, goth-style Irish singer Bambie Thug, Italian TikTok star Angelina Mango and the Netherlands’ Joost Klein with the playful pop-rap song “Europapa.”
Pope Francis appoints new bishop in Tennessee after former bishop's resignation under pressure
China's courts see over 100 percent increase in judicial transparency
Xi congratulates Putin on reelection
China urges S Korea to refrain from hyping up S China Sea issue
Swayman stops 38 shots, Bruins roll past Panthers 5
Washington manipulates freedom of speech, report finds
China's envoy calls for collective action on nuclear disarmament
3 Indian nationals charged with killing Canadian Sikh separatist leader make first court appearance
U.S. using Taiwan as 'pawn', says spokesperson
Poland's Tusk calls secret services meeting after defection of judge to Belarus
Minister pledges to improve security of State benefits