Eurovision 2016: Song contest returns at a fraught time for Europe
Over-the-top ballads, crazy costumes, hot dance beats ... and a guy who wants to perform naked with live wolves?
Yes, it's that time of year again. Eurovision 2016 is upon us. The spectacular contest to find the best pop song in Europe takes place this week in Sweden.
In a year of turmoil for Europe, where does a campy pop contest fit in?
In keeping with q tradition, theatre critic and professor Karen Fricker joins Shad to discuss the deeper meaning of Eurovision, and why the contest is a great case study in geopolitical tensions.
Fricker's Top 3 things to watch this year
- Russia: The number-one seeded super power is out to win it all this year. But it wouldn't be Eurovision without a little controversy. Fricker says that the fans aren't as smitten with the Russian act, "[Russian acts have] been booed heavily when they've gotten good votes in previous years. Particularly because of the anti-gay legislation, because this is a very gay friendly song contest, a lot of gay fans follow it and they take the opportunity to boo the voting as a way to send messages about larger issues."
- Refugee Crisis: With most of Europe currently accepting Syrian refugees, Eurovision has elected to highlight the continent's role through symbolism and song. Although tensions are high throughout the region as more refugees arrive, Fricker says the contest is choosing to focus on the positive. "What they've done is acknowledge it. The hosts are making numerous references to this being an opportunity to celebrate the best of Europe."
- Political Rivalries: Historically Eurovision has taken a strict stance on not allowing politics to enter the performances. However this year there are a string of acts making waves with sometimes blatant references to current affairs. Ukraine's act, Jamala has composed a song about the 1944 deportation of the Crimean Tatars by the Russian army. Although technically a historical event, tensions are still high between the the two nations and Russia has complained about Jamala's song.
(Plus, she also clears up the whole nudity with wolves thing.)
WEB EXTRA | Fricker's early prediction for 2016 winner: "Russia all the way. Put your money down now." It may not be a popular country right now, she says, but their song is a smash.