SVT, the Swedish national broadcaster, have revealed the stage for Melodifestivalen 2026 – their national selection for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, in Vienna.

A completely new stage has been created with the ambition to blur the boundaries between stage and audience. For the first time since 2007, a new team is also behind the stage design, with Fredrik Stormby at the helm as production designer. This year’s stage and arena layout is designed to be experienced from all sides, including angles that were previously part of the backstage area. The audience will thus become a natural part of the television screen, contributing to a stronger live feeling, where the competition comes closer to both those in the arena and viewers at home on the couch.

One of the new features is the long catwalk that connects the main stage with the audience stage. It creates opportunities for the artists to move right out among the spectators and at the same time becomes a powerful walk for the artists who make it all the way to the final. As in previous years, the greenroom is located behind the main cameras for maximum audience contact. New this year is that the lighting and video control area is moved to a different part of the arena, allowing for more audience seating and a cleaner TV image without technology in the foreground.

Anders Wistbacka, Project Manager for Melodifestivalen 2026, had the following to say:

“The new stage opens up completely new possibilities in the program. When the audience and stage are integrated in this way, a clearer nerve is created that reinforces the feeling of competition for both the audience on site and for the TV viewers.”

Fredrik Stormby, Production Designer for Melodifestivalen 2026, had the following to say:

“Over the years, Melodifestivalen has offered a number of spectacular stages, but we dare to promise that this year’s design offers completely new experiences and makes a strong impression, of course while maintaining the familiar Melodifestivalen vibe.”

Let us know what you think about Sweden and the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest – either in the comments below or on our FACEBOOK, BLUESKY, TWITTER, YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM and TIKTOK pages.

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Author: Richard Taylor

Source: SVT