Liverpool councilmember Harry Doyle, speaking to The Euro Trip podcast, revealed that a date has been set internally for the semifinal allocation draw.
The host city insignia exchange, which Doyle said is “at the top of the to-do list”, is also set for that time. These two ceremonies have historically been the first events in the Eurovision year to be organized by the host broadcaster, which this year is the BBC.
About the semifinal allocation draw
For countries that do not automatically qualify for the final, the semifinal allocation draw determines which semifinal they will perform in. Country names are placed into pots and drawn in a way that seeks to minimize regional bloc voting. For prequalified countries–the Big Five as well as last year’s winner Ukraine–this draw will decide which semifinals they will vote in.
Euro Trip writer Callum Rowe speculates that the ceremony will occur on the 31st of January, which would follow the trend from the 2020 and 2022 allocation draws, which were both held on the last Tuesday of January. A venue has not yet been announced.
Liverpool’s plans for the future
Councilmember Doyle also revealed further endeavors in the works for Eurovision 2023. Some official art will be released, and the city will also meet with members of its Ukrainian community to determine how they can get involved.
Doyle acts as a cabinet member for culture and the visitor economy in Liverpool. He has previously spoken with the Eurovision fan community when recommending that they seek accommodation outside of the city limits when traveling for the contest in May.
What we know about Eurovision 2023
Although Ukraine won the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest in Turin, due to the ongoing Russian invasion they are unable to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. Instead, the United Kingdom stepped in, as 2022’s runner-up; Liverpool will host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest on the 9th, 11th, and 13th of May 2023. The contest will take place at the M&S Arena, with 37 countries taking part.
To find out more about the host city, check out Rory’s video tour. The BBC is actively working with UA:PBC to include Ukrainian culture and other Ukrainian participation for Eurovision 2023 to represent their status as reigning winner. Most recently, the BBC and UA:PBC revealed the creative team working on this year’s contest.
Are you excited about Eurovision 2023? Will you be watching the semifinal allocation draw? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok as we prepare for Eurovision 2023!
News Source: The Euro Trip
Photo Credit: EBU / Stijn Smulders
