From the Eurovision Song Contest in Kiev
SHOCKed
I am totally shocked that Ireland did not make it through to the final. Watching dress rehearsals and even the semi-final, I personally had picked 4 entries who I thought would have made it through. Netherlands, Estonia, Iceland, Belarus and, of course, Ireland - none of which made it.
All of the above put on a great performance but the interesting one is Belarus. Angelica, from Belarus, undertook a vigorous promotional campaign throughout Europe at a reported cost of $1 million. Apparently her husband is a wealthy businessman and bank rolled the lot. She hosted 3 parties throughout the week, including her birthday bash, which was on a large yacht and contained a swimming pool full of balloons. I guess money can't buy you ...
After last night's defeat I attended the official after party in the Euroclub, accompanied by many from the Irish delegation. Donna and Joe were understandably disappointed (moreso Joe) by the whole proceedings and retired to their hotel after the show. Donna later attended the after party, went back to her hotel and then re-attended the after party with Head of Delegation, Julian Vignoles. Always better to celebrate than commiserate girlfriend!
Anyhoo, such is the atmosphere here that there are no losers. The after party was well attended by every country, who all reveled in the big fireworks display overhead the outdoor arena. I eventually got back to my hotel at 6am, such were the extent of the festivities.
This evening I'm off to the final dress rehearsal in advance of tomorrows grand finale. At this stage it is too close to predict a winner, but so far I'm thinking of Greece, Switzerland and Hungary.
Tonight sees the surprise Ukranian party in the Euroclub, which promises to "set the night on fire". It'll do for a warm up I suppose.
Question of the night: Which member of a Scandanavian delegation was so drunk at the party last night that they had to be carried out of the building and sent back to their hotel early? All after losing their bag and mobile.
