As we head towards the festive season, Albanian national broadcaster RTSH has revealed more information regarding Festivali i Këngës (FiK). Specifically, the hosts of the three shows and the format of the selection have been outlined.
Familiar faces returning
In a post on Instagram, RTSH gave more details as to who will guide both the Albanian public and FiK followers through the nights of the 27th, 28th and 29th of December. Familiar face Jonida Maliqi will return to the stage, but will conduct the show instead of taking part.
Maliqi will also double up as an interval act for the shows. To help the former Eurovision entrant host, Jonida will be joined by popular Albanian presenters Xhemi Shehu, Klevi Kadilli and Isli Islami.
Switch up in the Festivali i Këngës structure
As well as the hosts, RTSH also announced the change in format for Festivali i Këngës 60. Spanning across three nights, the second night typically showcases another version of the competing songs.
However, this year the second night will not feature any of the competitors. Instead, the first night will premiere all 20 competing songs, with the second night reserved as a celebration of the past 60 years of the festival. The final night will again show all 20 participants before selecting the winner, who will represent Albania in Turin.
Albania’s Eurovision History
Despite Albania only making its debut in the Contest in 2004, the Balkan nation has had varied success. Debuting with a 7th place finish with Anjeza Shahini’s “The Image of You”, Albania has qualified for the final 10 of 17 times. Their best result came in 2012, with Rona Nishliu giving Albania its first Top 5 position with “Suus”.
In 2021, Anxhela Peristeri represented Albania in Rotterdam with her song “Karma”. Qualifying for the final in 10th place, Peristeri finished in 21st place. In total, Albania managed to receive 57 points combined from both the jury and the televote.
Are you going to be watching Festivali i Këngës this year? Which name has you the most excited? Do you think Albania could have a chance at winning in Turin? As always, please let us know what you think by commenting below. Be sure to follow ‘THAT Eurovision Site’ on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
News Source: RTSH
Photo Credit: EBU / Thomas Hanses
