Eurovision heats up in Athens

EXCITEMENT is definitely in the air as rehearsals continue at the Olympic Indoor Hall in Athens for Eurovision 2006.

“Our rehearsal today was even better than our first one the other day,” said Irish hopeful Brian Kennedy. “Again, the sound people were fantastic. They were incredibly supportive. They must be so tired but they seem to have found energy from somewhere. And it was so nice to hear people clapping after the rehearsal.”

If Kennedy was worried about getting through the Eurovision qualifier on Thursday, he can take comfort from the fact that Ladbrokes have skinny odds on qualification for Ireland at just 5/4. When it comes to winning the competition outright though Brian’s odds are a good deal longer at 28/1.

The 11/4 favourite for victory in Eurovision 2006 in Athens is Greek sensation, Anna Vissi, the Madonna of the Mediterranean.

But if there was an award for being multi-talented, then Kennedy would surely walk away with it.

Already a critically acclaimed songwriter and singer, he has now emerged as an author of worth, producing a series of short stories and two novels within a couple of years.

In November 2005, Brian was selected to represent Ireland in the 2006 Eurovision. On May 18, he will perform ‘Every Song is a Cry for Love’, a song written by himself and selected by the Irish public.

Among his favourite Irish Eurovision entries are Johnny Logan. “He stands out because that was the first time I was old enough to stay up and watch. He wore this white suit like John Travolta but was Irish and sung in an Irish accent. And our last winner Eimear Quinn is another who stands out.”

“I had no idea that I could sing,” he said. “I was one of those annoying children who wouldn’t stop humming. I think singing is something that chooses you, not the other way round. I’ve never had a vocal lesson in my life,” he said at yesterday’s rehearsals.

In the main arena, members of the production crew were making adjustments to the lighting and constructing the remaining elements of the stage yesterday.

In its 50-year history, the Eurovision stage has played host to rock gods and pop goddesses, but this year it will see some real, bona fide ancient Greek gods. Coming down to earth from the heavens in an astounding display of high-flying acrobatics, these gods and goddesses act as a reminder of the city’s ancient history.