Eurovision 2026 Rehearsals
On May 3, 2026, closed-door rehearsals for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 are underway in Vienna, with no press access allowed. These initial run-throughs last 30 minutes and involve participants from the first semi-final. Updates on these sessions are being shared through the official Eurovision Reddit page.
After each rehearsal run, delegations head to a playback room to review footage and discuss potential adjustments to their performances. The final stage of preparation includes a 20-minute makeup consultation, a critical part of getting ready for the live stage show.
First Semi-Final Participants
On May 2, artists from the first half of the first semi-final already took the stage to present their acts. Rehearsals are proceeding on schedule; today, performers from several countries are set to appear, including:
- Montenegro
- Estonia
- Israel
- Belgium
- Lithuania
- San Marino
- Poland
- Serbia
These Eurovision 2026 rehearsals represent a vital phase in contest preparation, bringing together musicians from across Europe.
As one of the world's largest music competitions, Eurovision relies heavily on rehearsals to ensure polished, high-quality performances. Contestants not only refine their acts but also practice stage choreography and visual effects, which can significantly influence how their performances are judged. Once rehearsals conclude, participants will have the chance to improve their shows based on feedback from judges and experts, undoubtedly raising the overall level of competition.
As the closed rehearsals progress, insights into the performances are beginning to surface, shedding light on the artists' preparations and strategies. For those eager to learn more about the participants and the acts that have already been showcased, a detailed overview can be found in our earlier article on the opening rehearsals of Eurovision 2026.