As the Norwegian broadcaster NRK, confirmed today, an audience will be present for the final of Melodi Grand Prix 2022.

So far the semi-finals of MGP 2022 haven’t featured any audience in order to protect the artists and production staff it will remain like that for the last semi-final and second chance round. Even though the contest hasn’t featured an audience there were some struggles the production  faced . Some of the hosts were tested positive so they weren’t able to guide the audience through the semi-final, Annika Momrak during the second week and Kåre Magnus during the third week. In addition to that the performers, Subwoolfer also had to switch their performance scheduled for last Saturday to this one.

Given the fact that the Norwegian government loosened restrictions for audience at indoor events, NRK confirmed that an audience of approximately 500 people will be allowed to attend the final of Melodi Grand Prix 2022 which is set to take place on 19th of February at the H3 Arena in Fornebu. With the new Covid-19 guidelines, requirements about the social distancing do not apply at indoor venues (cinemas as well as concert halls) given the fact that audience is seated at their assigned seats.

The audience is a large and important part of a live TV show, and the audience adds an atmosphere and an excitement which has been heavily missed.
Stig Karlsen (Project manager of MGP and Head of Norwegian) for NRK

In addition to him one of the finalists, Elsie Bay, also commented the decision: “It will be absolutely fantastic, and a totally new experience! I’m so glad it’s possible now. We get a chance to experience MGP a little more as it should be –  a party for everyone.”

This Saturday we will be watching the last four semi-final performances of: Alexandra Joner, Kim Wigaard, Maria Mohn and Sofie Fjellvang you can read our interviews with Kim, Maria and Sofie. The three non qualifiers  of the fourth semi-final will be having a chance to compete for becoming one of the four acts for the second chance round. In a show scheduled for Monday, 7th of February we will be watching performances of all 12 non qualifiers which so far include Mari Bølla, Sturla and VILDE from SF 3, Steffen Jakobsen, Lily Lowe and Daniel from SF 2 as well as Mira Craig, Eline Noelia and Trollfest from SF 1 of Melodi Grand Prix 2022. Four most voted on Monday advance to the second chance round scheduled for Saturday, 12th of February and the winner of it will complete the line-up of the final scheduled to take place on 19th of February. You can read our interviews with VILDE, Mari Bølla as well as the ones with Steffen, Lily, Daniel and Mira by clicking at the name of the performer.

Don’t forget to vote for your favourite of the fourth semi-final below

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Are you excited for the final of Melodi Grand Prix 2022? Let us know your impressions in the comments below and at our social media links!