Today, the rehearsals for Eurovision 2026 continue in Vienna. Countries rehearsing on Day 4 include Cyprus, Latvia, Denmark, Australia, Ukraine, Albania, Malta and Norway. The second to rehearse today is Latvia’s Atvara
What did we learn about Atvara’s staging?
Latvia takes that route with Atvara’s “Ēnā”, keeping the core of the Supernova-winning staging intact while adapting it for the larger Eurovision stage. The identity of the performance remains instantly recognisable.
But it hasn’t stayed exactly the same. The overall concept has been scaled up, with subtle adjustments that enhance the visual impact. The costume, already a key part of the performance, now features additional detailing, with embellishments extending further across the outfit and catching more light during key moments.
The staging itself also leans more into texture and atmosphere. Reflective elements, including glass-like materials, are used more extensively, creating a sharper, more intense visual environment. Atvara remains the centre of attention, delivering the song with the same focus and emotional control that made it stand out in the national final.
Photos from the first rehearsal should be up about 24 hours after it finishes. We’ll update this article when they’re out.
Who is Atvara?
Atvara is the moniker of Liene Stūrmane, a 32-year-old singer-songwriter from the Latvian city of Liepāja. Liene was a talented singer as a child, and spent her formative years in music school studying jazz and pop singing. She first gained prominence in 2017 when she competed in Latvia’s version of The X Factor. However, it would not be until 2024 when she released her debut song, which went viral on TikTok. Since then, she has had a stellar career in her homeland, working with former Eurovision contestant Intars Busulis.
Atvara will participate in Eurovision 2026 with her “Ēnā” which was co-written by Atvara herself, as well as Jānis Jačmenkins.
Latvia’s Eurovision Journey
Latvia made their Eurovision debut in 2000, finishing 3rd with “My Star” by Brainstorm. They have performed at every contest since and managed to win in 2002. Marie N sang “I Wanna,” scoring 176 points and bringing Eurovision to Riga in the process. Latvia also managed to finish in the top 10 two more times, in 2005 and 2015.
Latvia’s most recent entry on the Eurovision stage was Tautumeitas, who performed “Bur man laimi”. Latvia successfully qualified from the second semi-final for the second year in a row. In the Grand Final, Tautumeitas finished in 13th place with 158 points. Of these points, 42 were from the public vote, and 116 were from the national juries.
What do you think of “Ēnā”? Are you excited to see what Atvara will do in Vienna? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Tumblr, Threadsand Blueskyas we gear up for Eurovision 2026!
News Source: EBU
Photo Credit: Ralfs Cimermanis