30 May 2010
Liebe Deutschland
It's a typical Eurovision cliché,
but last night was an amazing show. Like in 1996, the Norwegians
showed that they can be innovative. The flashmob dancing is a piece
of audience participation I for one won't forget in a hurry. The air
was filled with gay-tosterone or gystregon or what ever the
appropriate gay hormone is called. I thought to myself, this must be
what the old biddies feel at Knock or what straight boys feel at the
World cup.
I of course, feel sorry for Niamh but
at least this result should be a kick up the arse for RTE and we
might get a decent selection process next year – perhaps even one
that lasts more than one night! Congratulations must go to Germany
for winning with an enjoyable pop-ditty. The reaction of most of the
German fans was along the lines of “what?, we're winning, but we
don't win!!!” Germany has sent many entries that didn't do as well
as they should have because they're Germany and well.. don't mention
the war. It was the worst and perhaps most visible example of
political voting in the contest. Without trying to get to profound
about something that clearly isn't profound, I would say that
perhaps this is one of the last few signs of rehabilitation for the
Berlin republic. In any case, I'm just happy that next years host
town (Berlin, Cologne and Hamburg are the favourites it seems) shall
be Ryanair-able again.
I had a fantastic week popping the auld
Eurovision cherry. A highlight was meeting the winner of the very
first contest, Lys Assia. Yes, you read right. I saw her in the lobby
of the plaza hotel and managed to get a chance to shake her hand and
say Bonsoir. Aside from this, and possibly even more important will
be the stirring sense of community that is felt at the contest by all
concerned.
Takk Norge!