As the final of Melodifestivalen 2023 approaches, there are reports of concerns regarding Loreen’s 1,800kg upper LED. The LED, a crucial component of her performance of the song “Tattoo,” could prove to be too heavy for the Eurovision stage in Liverpool.
It’s not the first time that the organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest have faced this issue. In the past, they have been hesitant about performances that require items to be hung from the rigging in the venue. For instance, in 2019, Swedish representative John Lundvik had to change the lamp that was hung from the ceiling at Melodifestivalen to a floor-mounted stand for the lighting device in Israel.
It is worth noting that, in general, staging from Melodifestivalen has translated well with minimal changes to the Eurovision stage. However, the weight of Loreen’s LED could be a significant challenge. Melodifestivalen’s project manager Anders Wistbacka has stated that they have not yet thought much about how to address this issue. They will only take it up with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and the BBC once a winner has been selected at Melodifestivalen 2023.
Mr Wistbacka emphasized that the team is currently completely focused on the Swedish TV program. After that, they will have to adapt the staging depending on who wins. While some contributions will be easy to customize, others will be more of a challenge.
The weight of the LED is a legitimate concern. It is an integral part of Loreen’s performance, and changing it could have a significant impact on the overall effect. However, the organisers of Melodifestivalen and Eurovision have proven to be adaptable and resourceful in the past. There is no doubt that they will find a solution that works for all parties involved.
In the meantime, Loreen’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the results of the final of Melodifestivalen 2023, hoping that she will emerge victorious and earn the chance to represent Sweden at Eurovision in Liverpool.