The 2023 Eurovision Song Contest is officially underway with thousands arriving in Liverpool for the occasion.
So far, the city has transformed with everything from beautiful art installations to the fantastic EuroVillage at the Pier Head and more. Last night, the first live semi-final show aired from Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena, with the public, outside the UK, being given the chance to vote for their favourite.
Last night 15 acts performed, with only ten securing a spot in the final. But many have been left wondering why the UK was unable to get in on the action and vote for their favourite entry last night.
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The contest format comprises of three live shows - the first semi-final, the second semi-final and the grand final - and out of fairness, you cannot vote for your own country. The UK, along with Ukraine, Germany, France, Italy and Spain, are automatically through to the grand final on Saturday night.
This is because the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain make up the 'Big Five,' who are the group of countries who via their broadcasters make the biggest financial contribution towards the organisation of the Eurovision Song Contest and Ukraine are the reigning champions. When it comes to the semi-finals, only those countries who take part in that specific show can vote - along with two or three of the 'Big Five' already in the grand final.
Viewers in the UK were not eligible to vote in the first round of semi-finals which took place on Tuesday and saw more than three million people watch. Pre-recorded footage of performances from France, Germany and Italy, along with the previous year's winner were played to the audience in the arena and at home.
However, UK viewers will be able to have their say in the second round of semi-finals, which will be held on Thursday, May 11. In the Grand Final, all competing countries can vote.
So far, Norway, Malta, Serbia, Latvia, Portugal, Ireland, Croatia, Switzerland, Israel, Moldova, Sweden, Azerbaijan, Czechia, Netherlands and Finland have qualified alongside the Big Five and Ukraine. The second semi-final takes place on Thursday May 11 at 8pm and see ten more finalists make it through to the grand final.
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