Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra qualify for the Eurovision final receiving a standing ovation
Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra are through to the final of the Eurovision Song Contest, solidifying their position as favorites in the competition.
The folk-rap band hit the stage during the live semi-finals with their song “Stefania.” The single, written as a tribute to the singer’s mother, is now dedicated to all the Ukrainian matriarchs in the wake of Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
The audience at the Pala Alpitour responded with a mixture of joy and emotion — deafening applause accompanied by genuine tears.
“Thank you for supporting Ukraine,” said founder member Oleh Psiuk as they finished their performance. Other countries that progressed from the first semi-final to Saturday’s final were Switzerland, Armenia, Iceland, Lithuania, Portugal, Norway, Greece, Moldova, and the Netherlands.
