Even more show power for the 70th Eurovision Song Contest: World stars, ESC legends, and international dance sensation complete the Opening and Interval Acts
A true show legend returns to the Eurovision Song Contest stage: Vicky Leandros will open this year's Eurovision Song Contest's first semi-final with her legendary first Eurovision entry „L'amour est bleu“ in an entirely new arrangement. But that's not all: more ESC legends, including Alexander Rybak, Kristian Kostov, Max Mutzke, Miriana Conte, and Ruslana, will return for a reunion in the finale. Additionally, the ORF presents the internationally renowned dance group Zurcaroh as a spectacular Interval Act from Austria for the Eurovision Song Contest.
More information on the show acts, such as Parov Stelar and JJ, is available at tv.ORF.at/esc-medienupdate.
A world star returns: Vicky Leandros is the Opening Act of the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest
She is a household name not only among ESC fans but a star of global stature: Vicky Leandros will open the first semi-final with „L'amour est bleu“ in an entirely new arrangement. The song was performed by Leandros at the age of 15 at the 1967 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, later conquering the top spot on the US Billboard Charts and remains one of the most beloved Eurovision songs of all time with hundreds of cover versions.
In 1972, Vicky Leandros returned to the Eurovision stage with „Après toi“ and sang her way into the hearts of millions of viewers all over Europe with her extraordinary voice and unforgettable stage presence. Her victory at the Eurovision Song Contest 1972 for Luxembourg laid the foundation for a worldwide career that continues to this day. With over 55 million records sold, 466 albums in eight languages, and celebrated concert tours worldwide, Vicky Leandros remains a true Eurovision legend.
Austrian dance sensation Zurcaroh as an interval act in the first semi-final
Another special surprise in the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest will be the performance of the internationally renowned dance group Zurcaroh as an interval act. The Austrian acrobatics and dance group from Vorarlberg playfully combines dance and acrobatics and stands for pure show magic.
Since its founding in 2009, Zurcaroh has made a name for itself worldwide as one of the most exciting and innovative acrobatics and dance troupes in the modern entertainment scene, with countless performances all over the world. With their distinctive mix of breathtaking acrobatics, spectacular dance performances, and unique stage presence, they capture the audience in no time. Their shows combine power, precision, and grace, culminating in spectacular jumps, aerial acrobatics, and formations that take your breath away and leave the audience in awe. At the Eurovision Song Contest, they will provide thrilling entertainment for millions of viewers and be a special highlight of the show.
„Celebration“ – ESC legends as the interval act in the grand finale
The grand finale of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest gets even more star power in the form of true ESC legends. In „Celebration,“ one of three high-profile Interval Acts during the voting phase of the grand finale, Eurovision all-stars like Verka Serduchka, Erika Vikman, and Lordi will perform together. The ORF now presents even more ESC celebrities in the star-studded ensemble: Alexander Rybak, Kristian Kostov, Max Mutzke, Miriana Conte, and Ruslana complete the lineup, bringing ESC history, well-known hits, and great stage energy to the show stage.
Alexander Rybak, winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2009, is an absolute fan favorite on board. The Norwegian musician and violinist made ESC history with „Fairytale“ and is still considered one of the most memorable acts of the competition. Kristian Kostov will also be part of „Celebration,“ leading Bulgaria to 2nd place in 2017 with „Beautiful Mess.“ Max Mutzke represented Germany in 2004 with „Can't Wait Until Tonight,“ impressing with a strong 8th place – it was an intimate and impressive performance that has long enjoyed cult status. From the recent ESC history comes Miriana Conte. She represented Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 and captured much attention with her song „Serving.“ And finally, an ESC legend will provide additional goosebumps: Ruslana, winner for Ukraine in 2004, stormed to the top with „Wild Dances“ and still represents pure energy and an iconic performance.
The Interval Act „Celebration“ promises to be an exhilarating musical journey through 70 years of the Eurovision Song Contest, sung by artists who have shaped the competition.
(May 04, 2026)