Eurovision week has officially started in Vienna. Artists walked the turquoise carpet on Sunday in a glamorous event free of political discussions.
The turquoise carpet is a tradition where artists meet the media after the opening ceremony. Guidelines prevent journalists from asking political questions.
Israeli singer Noam Bettan thanked supporters in an interview with ORF. Australian Delta Goodrem highlighted music's power to unite people and promised to do her best to win.
Estonian Vanilla Ninja, who competed for Switzerland in 2005, noted that the atmosphere remains the same but much has changed. Swedish Felicia, representing Sweden with the song ”My system”, stuck to music despite prior statements.
The contest takes place 12–16 May with 35 participating countries, the lowest number in over 20 years.
