The Eurovision Song Contest, organized by the European Broadcasting Union, is the world’s largest non-sporting live TV event and the most watched live entertainment program in Europe, attracting nearly 200 million television viewers worldwide last year alone. This year’s spectacular 2016 Grand Final competition, celebrating the theme “Come Together,” will be held in Stockholm, Sweden. The competition will feature acts representing 42 countries battling for the coveted trophy as well as the chance to host next year’s contest in their home country.
Eurovision is known for its eclectic mix of power ballads, ethnic rhythms, and bubblegum pop, paired with intricate lighting sequences, pyrotechnics, and elaborate costumes. Over its storied 60 year history, the contest has catapulted the likes ofCeline Dion, Olivia Newton-John, Julio Iglesias, and ABBA to stardom. Last year’s winner Måns Zelmerlöw of Sweden wowed audiences with his song “Heroes,” and two years ago viewers across the world were blown away when Eurovision’s 2014 champion, Conchita Wurst of Austria, took home the trophy after a performance of “Rise Like a Phoenix.” Conchita ignited a wave of buzz as the first drag performer to win the contest.
