Context:

The Eurovision Song Contest relies on a highly efficient and coordinated 'invisible crew' responsible for set changes, ensuring each performance transitions smoothly within a strict 35-second timeframe. Led by stage manager Richard van Rouwendaal, the team rehearses weeks in advance, meticulously planning every detail to accommodate the diverse and elaborate staging requirements from participating countries. The crew’s tasks include managing props, setting up lighting and pyrotechnics, and maintaining a clean stage, with contingency plans in place for unforeseen incidents. Props play a crucial role in performances, necessitating complex logistics and secret passageways to move them discreetly. Despite the intense workload and long hours, the crew prioritizes teamwork and morale, ensuring the show runs flawlessly while fostering a positive work environment.

Dive Deeper:

• The Eurovision stage crew, led by Richard van Rouwendaal, has only 35 seconds to switch performers and set up the stage, which involves precise movements and a high level of coordination akin to a Formula 1 tyre change.

• Weeks before the event, the crew begins rehearsals, receiving detailed staging plans from each country and using stand-ins to practice, ensuring every prop and piece of equipment is perfectly positioned.

• The crew includes stagehands, lighting and pyrotechnics technicians, and cleaners who prepare the stage for over 30 performances, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a pristine stage for optimal camera shots.

• Elaborate props are integral to Eurovision performances, requiring a sophisticated logistical setup with props entering and exiting the stage through organized routes, and occasionally involving secret passageways for mid-performance changes.

• Contingency plans are in place for potential on-stage issues, such as switching to pre-recorded footage or extending audience shots if a significant problem arises, ensuring the live broadcast remains seamless.

• The demanding nature of the job involves long hours and intense pressure, but efforts are made to maintain crew morale through team activities and personal touches, such as sharing snacks and celebrating successes together.

• New welfare measures for contestants and crew, like closed-door rehearsals and designated rest zones, have been introduced to mitigate stress and ensure the well-being of everyone involved in the production.