In 1981, within two days of the English pop group Bucks Fizz performing at Eurovision, velcro was sold out across England. Their velcro rip-away skirts clearly spoke to people.
I can’t remember my first Eurovision. But I do remember the outfits. And that it was the only thing my incredibly busy travel agent mum watched religiously.
There was that year we had a busload of Swedish tourists in our house. They ruthlessly teased an Austrian travel guide when Austria didn’t get any points. Or there was my first teen Eurovision party. Mum caught us trying to make schnapps with imported Haribo gummi bears and cheap vodka. The party didn’t last long.
The Europe presented to me via Eurovision was a world away from the suburbs of Sydney. I wanted to see this world.
Because Eurovision is more than just a singing competition. It’s a cultural extravaganza that brings together nations from all across Europe (and now apparently Australia). And together we celebrate diversity, music, and the sheer joy of sparkly costumes.
In a world that often feels divided, Eurovision reminds us of our shared humanity. It breaks down barriers, transcends cultural divides, and brings people together through the universal language of music. It’s a harmonious reminder that we’re all in this crazy world together.
Britain’s got talent! Eurovision 2023 puts Liverpool in the spotlight
Liverpool is hitting all the right notes as it takes centre stage for Eurovision 2023. The UNESCO City of Music is playing host on behalf of last year’s winners, Ukraine.
With a global TV audience of 160 million anticipated, Liverpool is expecting more than 100,000 visitors to descend upon the city, providing a major boost for the local economy. The city is hosting a number of events during Eurovision including The Eurovision Village which hosts Discover Ukraine, a special area dedicated to Ukrainian producers and artisans.
The Museum of Liverpool is also holding a flash mob at noon on the day of the Grand Final, as part of #HelpUkraineSong’s campaign to create the world’s biggest ever physical and digital flash mob. People will come together to perform ‘With a little help from my friends’ by The Beatles. Groups joining in at attractions from across the UK include the London Eye, Blackpool Tower, Warwick Castle, and even globally.
To celebrate this city’s lively music and nightlife scene, VisitEngland has created an illustrated map showcasing the various districts across the city that know how to throw a party. So, put on your dancing shoes and explore all the musical hotspots that Liverpool has to offer.
Bringing Eurovision (and the King) to Sydney
Sydney agents got the chance to experience some of the extravagance, glitz, pomp, and pageantry happening across Britain this month at an event earlier this week.
At Visit Britain’s Celebration of a Right Royal Occasion (you know the one) and a Musical Extravaganza (Eurovision obvs.), agents were treated like royalty (or sparkly popstars), and learned some new fun facts about Britain! It was, I quote, our resident Brit, “a jolly good time”.
Don’t forget to tune in to the SBS broadcast coverage of Eurovision to watch Australia’s contender, Voyager vie for the grand prize in Liverpool. SBS live viewing times below:
Semi Final 2 – Friday 12 May at 5:00am AEST (*featuring Voyager)
Grand Final – Sunday 14 May at 5:00am AEST
