Eurovision Song Contest: Rehearsals have begun at the Wiener Stadthalle
Since JJ’s victory in Basel in May 2025, preparations for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest have been underway at ORF. And yesterday, 2 May, the time had finally come. The first delegations have arrived at the Wiener Stadthalle. Rehearsals have begun for the artists from Moldova, Sweden, Croatia, Portugal, Greece, Georgia and Finland. All other countries will follow in the coming days; the order of the individual rehearsals corresponds to the starting positions in the semi-final shows.
Following a welcome briefing and a short preparation period in the dressing rooms, which are decorated with large-scale images of Vienna, the delegations moved on to the first individual rehearsals. All artists have the opportunity to perform their song three times on stage within 30 minutes. Afterwards, the delegation discusses final changes with the production team in the so-called Viewing Room, which will be implemented by the second individual rehearsal next week. Following that, interviews with the EBU Social Media Team are on the agenda.
Photos of the first rehearsals can be found at www.eurovision.com/newsroom/image-bank
A relaxation area for acts and delegations: The Delegation Bubble
The Delegation Bubble is a backstage area designed specifically to meet the needs of artists and their delegations. The aim is to provide a safe, secure and comfortable environment in which participants can prepare for their performances in the best possible way. The concept of the ‘Delegation Bubble’ is based on a clear division into two parts: the ‘Connected Area’ comprises spaces where selected media activities and interactions can take place. The “Disconnected Area” – recognisable by the golden carpet laid in this section – is, by contrast, designed as a strictly private retreat and remains completely free of cameras and media presence. This separation ensures that both the public and personal needs of the artists are accommodated as effectively as possible.
To create an environment that feels like a “temporary home” during the busy weeks of the event, the “Delegation Bubble” offers a comprehensive range of facilities and numerous services. These include a central welcome desk, private changing rooms, a professionally equipped hair and make-up area, and a delegation lounge for relaxation and socialising. The offering is complemented by a catering area, functional workspaces, and dedicated quiet and relaxation zones. A dedicated room for vocal warm-ups is also available for artistic preparation. With this holistic concept, the “Delegation Bubble” sets new standards in the care and support of artists and delegations during the Eurovision Song Contest.
Photos of the Delegation Bubble (the Disconnected Area was photographed before the delegations moved in) are available at www.picdrop.com/orf/tTwrMVmvdw.
(May 03, 2026)