Welcome back to ESCBubble’s coverage for Eurovision 2021! It’s been a long day in Rotterdam as the first seven countries took to the rehearsal stage, but we’re almost there as the last country takes to the stage.

As always, you can check out our ongoing coverage through both our Live Rehearsal Blog and also rolling  daily updates on our Twitter Account.

If you are avoiding potential rehearsal spoilers then don’t read any further! Semi Final One will take place at 21.00 CET on Tuesday 18th May 2021 with sixteen countries competing for ten qualifying spots for the final.

Last to rehearse this afternoon is… Ireland!

First Rehearsal

Ireland promised something that has never been done before and she has definitely delivered. There was a LOT going on so apologies if we forget anything. The staging had elements of Silvan Areg’s performance from Destination Eurovision a few years ago, with ‘scenes’ on stage which are then pushed next to the camera to look bigger than they are. Lesley has her work cut out as she moves around the stage interacting with these, holes in a wall, trees, waves, etc. Lots of things on stage!!

It seems to work well for the most part, although there are definitely things that need to be tightened up. Probably to be expected from a first rehearsal. During the chorus there is a page-turning story book design that looks pretty cool and completely unique, however the momentum is lost ahead of the big note where she moves away from the scenery and moves to the satellite stage. The lack of any form of staging or LED graphics for the last 20-30 seconds does hinder a little, as it all just looks a little empty with the camera trickery of the earlier parts being exposed behind her. All in all, with a little work this can be a really strong and memorable performance for Ireland.

Before Eurovision

Lesley Roy was chosen as the internally selected representative for Ireland back in 2020. Last year, she was set to perform pop song “Story Of My Life” however unfortunately the contest was cancelled. Lesley however did cement herself as a fan favourite by getting greatly involved with the fandom in multiple areas – including hosting DJ sets in what would have been Eurovision week last year. It made it very clear that Lesley is a big fan of the contest!

Despite no news for a while, Irish broadcaster RTE did eventually confirm that singer-songwriter Lesley Roy would be returning for her second chance at representing Ireland. This year, she will be performing “Maps” which is again a pop song but with a slightly more indie twist to it. If you’re a fan of vocal pop & strings then you’ll definitely be a fan! Check out the official music video below: