Eurovision 2021 organizers set determined yet realistic plans for May

Eurovision Song Contest organizers have confirmed that while the Contest will go ahead this year, it is ‘impossible’ to hold an ordinary event.

Report informs, referring to foreign media, that May 2020 contest was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, with the 41 acts for that year forced to scrap the songs they had planned to enter.

The organizers will now focus their efforts on Scenario B. This circumstance would involve hosting a socially distanced event with artists performing in Rotterdam while realistically keeping downscaling options on the table for the weeks to come.

The event will take place on 18, 20, and 22 May. With just over three months to go, the organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 have agreed upon a determined yet realistic approach in the final phase of preparations.

Of course, the health and safety of all participants is the top priority. In response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), together with Dutch Host broadcasters NPO, NOS, and AVROTROS, and the City of Rotterdam, have ruled out that the 65th Contest can take place ‘as normal’ this year. It means that Scenario A will not go ahead.

“The Eurovision Song Contest will make its welcome return this May despite the pandemic, but, in the prevailing circumstances, it is regrettably impossible to hold the event we are used to,” said Martin Österdahl, Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest.

“We’re grateful for the renewed commitment and backing from the City of Rotterdam and the ongoing support of all the participating broadcasters. We very much hope to be able to gather in Rotterdam in May and will do all we can in the coming weeks to achieve this. With an ever-changing situation, we are taking our time to ensure that we can host the Eurovision Song Contest in the best and safest way possible,” he added.