The “ESC Reihenfolge,” or ESC Running Order, refers to the order in which participating countries perform their songs during the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final. This order isn’t random; it’s carefully curated to create a captivating and engaging viewing experience for millions of viewers worldwide.
The responsibility for determining the running order falls to the producers of the host broadcaster. They have considerable leeway, but their primary goal is to ensure the show flows well musically and visually. The process begins after the second Semi-Final, once all qualifiers are known. A draw determines which half of the Grand Final each qualifying country will perform in (first half or second half). The “Big Five” (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom) and the host country are pre-qualified for the Grand Final and have their halves drawn beforehand.
Once the halves are known, the producers meticulously slot each song into a specific position. They use a variety of factors to avoid long stretches of similar-sounding or visually identical acts. This ensures that each performance stands out and the overall show remains dynamic.
One key consideration is musical genre. The producers aim to alternate between different genres to prevent audience fatigue. For example, a powerful ballad might be followed by an upbeat pop song, or a rock anthem might be followed by a more traditional folk-inspired piece. This variation keeps the audience engaged and caters to a wider range of musical tastes.
Visual staging and presentation are also critical. The producers consider factors such as the use of props, lighting, pyrotechnics, and choreography. They avoid placing acts with similar visual styles back-to-back, as this can make them appear less distinct. They also consider the pace of the show, alternating between slower, more intimate performances and high-energy, visually spectacular acts.
The placement of favorites and potential winners is another strategic element. Often, the producers will strategically place acts they believe are strong contenders in positions that maximize their impact. Historically, performing later in the show has been considered advantageous, as it allows the act to remain fresher in the viewers’ minds when voting opens. However, too far at the end can also lead to voter fatigue. Producers aim to create a balanced distribution of perceived favorites throughout the show.
Finally, the producers also need to consider practical matters such as stage setup and teardown time between acts. Complex stage setups require more time, so these acts need to be strategically placed to allow for smooth transitions between performances. These technical considerations are woven into the overall artistic considerations to create a seamless broadcast.
The “ESC Reihenfolge” is therefore much more than just a random list. It is a carefully planned and executed strategy designed to maximize the entertainment value and competitive fairness of the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final, ensuring a captivating and memorable experience for viewers around the globe.