The stage was set at the BelExpo tonight for both the Opening Ceremony, as well as the drawer for the opening country, closing country and Belarus’s running order position.

The artists were introduced in country alphabetical order. This included a quick chat with the hosts – Anna Kviloria & Denis Dudinsky, before heading up the red carpet into the crowd. Following this sequence, they each returned to the main stage to each declare their dream, followed by saying this year’s slogan – “Light Up!”. 

Before discovering the three draw results, we were treated to a hint of the opening act from Sunday’s main event. After the common song, we discovered Belarus would perform in 8th position, Ukraine would open and Poland would close.

Within minutes of these three draws taking place, the full running order was announced:

1. Ukraine
2. Portugal
3. Kazakhstan
4. Albania
5. Russia
6. The Netherlands
7. Azerbaijan
8. Belarus
9. Ireland
10. Serbia
11. Italy
12. Australia
13. Georgia
14. Israel
15. France
16. Macedonia
17. Armenia
18. Wales
19. Malta
20. Poland

While the advertisement breaks have yet to be announced, the 9th position for Ireland should effect them in terms of going into or out of an ad break. Following an ad break is one of the things some countries do dread.

Author: Richard Taylor

Source: EBU and Eurovision Ireland