Eurovision Song Contest — Liverpool 2023

May 20232h 12m

The First Semi-Final opened with host Julia Sanina performing part of 'Маяк' by her band, The Hardkiss. The interval featured global superstar Rita Ora, who delivered a medley of some of her biggest hits and her then-new single, 'Praising You'. Ukrainian singer Alyosha, who represented Ukraine at the 2010 Eurovision Song Contest, performed alongside Liverpool's acclaimed singer-songwriter, Rebecca Ferguson. Alyosha, who was forced to leave her country as a refugee in 2022, shared her personal journey through a new, haunting arrangement of Duran Duran’s song, 'Ordinary World'.

May 20232h 12m

In the Second Semi-Final, the theme “Music Unites Generations” explored the connection between Ukrainian generations and their music. Mariya Yaremchuk, who represented Ukraine in 2014, led a montage of some of the country's most well-known musical pieces. The performance travelled through time and ended with a collaborative performance from rapper OTOY, 14-year-old Junior Eurovision representative Zlata Dziunka, and Mariya, showing that music is the light that overcomes darkness. Another interval act, a performance called “Be Who You Wanna Be”, celebrated how Eurovision was a place for everyone. Three extraordinary drag performers led a high-energy pop routine with a troupe of dancers. They represented the huge spectrum of fans—regardless of age, nationality, or background—who revelled in being part of the contest. The medley of songs and incredible staging made it a performance to be remembered.

May 20234h 15m

The 67th Eurovision Song Contest took place in Liverpool, where the BBC hosted on behalf of Ukraine under the slogan 'United By Music'. The event expressed solidarity with Ukraine, culminating in an emotional performance of 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. Sweden's Loreen became the first woman to win the contest twice with her song 'Tattoo'. In second place, Finland's Käärijä won the public vote with 'Cha Cha Cha', while Noa Kirel of Israel finished third. Hosted by a team including Alesha Dixon, Graham Norton, and Hannah Waddingham, the Grand Final opened with a performance from 2022 winners Kalush Orchestra. The flag parade featured iconic past Ukrainian contestants, and interval acts included the UK's Sam Ryder and 'The Liverpool Songbook'—a tribute featuring past Eurovision stars like Mahmood, Netta, and Duncan Laurence.