After the Eurovision Song Contest was canceled, disappointed fans are now given an alternative. On May 16, 2020 at 9:00 p.m. the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) will host the event "Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light" instead of the final. However, this time it is not a competition in which the countries compete against each other. The candidates are all those who would have competed for their country this year, but they are not singing their song, but a hit from ESC history in their home country. Ben Dolic (22) sings for Germany. Well-known participants from the past decades should also help to connect the individual contributions. Years-long executive supervisor Jon Ola Sand (58) is sad in a statement on "eurovision.tv": "Unfortunately there will be no Eurovision Song Contest this year. Instead, we intend to broadcast Europe on May 16 with a unique prime time TV program to unite."
The focus is on cohesion
The Dutch producer Sietse Bakker (35) says about the change to this year's event: "We want to make a show that not only puts the 41 artists in the spotlight, but also inspires and connects people at home and across Europe." Bakker also emphasizes: "Of course, we will also honor those affected by the Covid 19 crisis and those who work so hard to fight them. Let us make this an unforgettable moment in the history of the Eurovision Song Contest . "
The EBU continues to refer to the week from 10th to 16th May as "Eurovision Week" and is also calling on radio stations in Europe to play this year's articles, but also pieces from the Eurovision past.