Austria’s JJ Embarks on Eurovision Journey in Basel

The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is fast approaching, and Austria’s representative, JJ, has already made a splash during initial rehearsals in Basel’s St. Jakobshalle. Performing his song Wasted Love, JJ took to the stage multiple times on May 5th, fine-tuning his performance for the international audience. We have been working for exactly this moment for months, JJ stated, have developed, prepared and rehearsed. Standing on this stage now is simply indescribable for me. I can’t put my feelings into words.

A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: Stage Design and Creative Vision

While full footage of the rehearsals remains under wraps until after the second individual rehearsal, snippets and insights have emerged, offering a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.JJ’s performance, creatively directed by Eurovision veteran Sergio Jaen and his team, promises a visually stunning experience. The stage design incorporates elements reminiscent of the song’s music video, featuring a stormy sea and lake.A central element is a boat, symbolizing personal memories, complete with a wooden mast and sail, which encounters a storm during the performance. Notably, the entire staging is designed to translate effectively into black and white, adding a unique artistic dimension.

The use of wind machines, a staple of many Eurovision performances, is also confirmed, adding to the dramatic atmosphere. This year’s contest is expected to draw over 160 million television viewers worldwide, highlighting the importance of a visually captivating stage presence.

Fashion forward: JJ’s Stage outfit by Finnish Designer Teemu Muurimäki

Adding to the visual spectacle, JJ’s stage outfit is the creation of Finnish designer Teemu Muurimäki. The design draws inspiration from a stormy black ocean, featuring a shiny, oversized long coat, wide pants, and top crafted from a high-gloss mixed fabric and woolen denim. Steel metal sole details accentuate the cuts and collar lines, adding a touch of edgy sophistication.

swiss Hospitality: Welcoming Delegations with a Touch of Humor

The Swiss organizers have extended a warm and humorous welcome to the delegations from the 37 participating countries. A specially constructed welcome chalet, filled with Swiss clichés and traditions, serves as a hub for familiarizing delegations with the event’s processes and safety regulations. This lighthearted approach sets a positive tone for the competition.

Eurovision 2025: Broadcast Schedule and accessibility

for viewers in Austria, ORF (Österreichischer Rundfunk) will provide extensive coverage of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. The broadcast schedule includes:

• Thursday, May 8th: Second rehearsal in Basel
• Sunday, May 11th: Opening Ceremony and official opening of the ESC 2025
• Tuesday, May 13th:
  • 8:15 p.m.,ORF 1 and ORF on: Mr. Song Contest Proudly Presents with Andi Knoll
  • 9:00 p.m., live in ORF 1 and on ORF on: Eurovision Song Contest 2025 – Semifinale 1
• wednesday, May 14th: General rehearsal for the second semi-final
• Thursday, May 15th:
  • 8:15 p.m., ORF 1 and ORF on: Mr. Song contest Proudly Presents with Andi Knoll
  • 9:00 p.m., live in ORF 1 and on ORF on: Eurovision Song Contest 2025 – Semifinale 2 (Austria with start number 6)
• Saturday, May 17th:
  • 8:15 p.m., live in ORF 1 and ORF on: Eurovision Song Contest 2025 – The Countdown with Barbara Schöneberger, Live from Basel
  • 9:00 p.m., live in ORF 1 and ORF on: Eurovision Song Contest 2025 – Finale
  • 0.55 a.m., live in ORF 1 and ORF on: eurovision Song Contest 2025 – The Aftershow with Barbara Schöneberger, live from Malmö

ORF is committed to accessibility, providing live subtitles for all three ESC evenings (semi-finals and final) on ORF 1, page 777, and on ORF’s live stream. Additionally, audio commentary for blind and visually impaired viewers will be available during the semi-finals, final, countdown, and after-show. The documentary Mr. Song Contest Proudly Presents will also be available with subtitles and as video-on-demand.

ORF III Celebrates Eurovision History

ORF III’s Culture Today will dedicate a week to the Eurovision Song Contest,from May 12th to May 16th. Austrian participants from past decades will share their personal experiences and unforgettable moments at the competition,offering insights into the challenges and highlights of their performances.