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West Australian
03-08-2025
- West Australian
Morecote is a Swiss village with a sublime lakeside setting
Morcote was once feted as 'the most beautiful village of Switzerland'. It won the award in a competition run by a popular Swiss magazine, Schweizer Illustrierte, in partnership with the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation. Almost a decade has passed since that accolade, but Morcote remains as picturesque and telegenic as you'd hope. It hugs Lake Lugano in the canton of Ticino, where southern Switzerland faces northern Italy. The nicest way to arrive in Morcote is by boat from Lugano city. It takes just half-an-hour, but there are only a few services per day, and I've missed the latest one, so I travel here instead with a combination of train and bus. If that sounds a hassle, believe me, in Switzerland, where the public transport network runs like clockwork 99.5 per cent of the time, it really isn't. About 40 minutes after departing Lugano, I'm walking by the shores of the lake in Morcote, where little wooden boats are bobbing in the water and couples are enjoying coffee, drinks and long, leisurely lunches outside the bars and eateries of the curving main street-cum-promenade. By these pastel-shaded arcaded buildings, stairways and lanes wind up into Morcote's well-preserved medieval core, where the bulk of the village's 3500 population reside. Further up on the hillside is the Church of Santa Maria del Sasso, a beautiful piece of gothic architecture from the 14th century. A lookout with benches above the church has terrific views over the bell tower and the lake, while a few Italian villages catch the eye across the water. In the Middle Ages, Morcote was a busy harbour and a loading point for goods destined for Milanese dukes. You can continue hiking upwards from the village, with this path connected to others on Ticino's network of trails (look out for the yellow signposts). But after you've caught your breath, I'd advise you to walk back past the church and down to Morcote's main street, just above which you'll find Parco Scherrer, one of Switzerland's most eclectic gardens. It was established by wealthy merchant Hermann Arthur Scherrer (1881-1956), who earned his fortune in the textile industry in St Gallen in northern Switzerland and splashed out indulging his twin passions for arts and travel. Parco Scherrer is set over terraced levels with whimsical artworks and follies surrounded by pools and fountains and an exotic flurry of trees and plants, including palms, pines, camellias, wisteria, oleander, cypresses, camphor, bamboo and eucalyptus. Labelled a 'Garden of Wonders', the park welcomed its first visitors in 1965 and is still free to enter. Some parts feel more Mediterranean, others from further afield. One moment you're standing by classical-style columns, the kind you'd find at a Greek or Roman temple, the next you're by a Middle Eastern-inspired house or perusing sculptures of Thai elephants or scantily-clad African women amid the foliage. The views of the lake enhance this garden's charm and I'm fortunate to have the place more or less to myself late on this spring afternoon. In summer, I could imagine it would feel a lot more crowded — and not quite as blissful. + Steve McKenna was a guest of Ticino Tourism and Switzerland Tourism. They have not influenced this story, or read it before publication. + For more information on visiting Morcote, see + To help plan a trip to Ticino and Switzerland, see and
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Austria's JJ wins Eurovision 2025 in emotional night marked by protest and resilience
An artist's victory on a night of tension and passion The final notes of Wasted Love echoed across the St Jakobshalle arena as Austria's Johannes Pietsch, famous as JJ, clinched the Eurovision 2025 title. But behind the lights, cheers, and confetti, the evening unfolded as one of the most politically charged in recent memory. The operatic techno-infused ballad, delivered from the deck of a digitally conjured storm-tossed ship, resonated with both heartbreak and hope, a fitting metaphor for a night that teetered between spectacle and protest. JJ, a 24-year-old classically trained countertenor with Austrian and Filipino roots, brought Austria its third Eurovision win. The performance channeled the drama of unrequited love, while musically echoing the stylings of 2024 winner Nemo. The techno breakdown in the final act sealed its modern appeal, capturing both jury acclaim and audience votes. Also read: Eurovision 2025 Grand Final as 26 countries battle for glory in Basel: Where and when to watch Live Events Protest and support intersect as Israel's Raphael faces disruption Runner-up Yuval Raphael of Israel delivered New Day Will Rise in Hebrew, French, and English. A survivor of the 7 October 2023 attacks, Raphael's presence and message of renewal were emotionally resonant. However, his performance was marred by disruption as two pro-Palestinian protesters rushed toward the stage, throwing paint and briefly interrupting the show. A crew member was hit but uninjured. The Swiss Broadcasting Corporation confirmed the agitators were apprehended and handed to police. 'The crew member is fine and nobody was injured,' a spokesman said. 'The organiser handed the two people over to the police... It is now up to the organiser to decide whether to press charges.' Pro-Palestinian demonstrations also took place outside the venue, as well as counter-protests bearing Israeli flags. Meanwhile, Spain's broadcaster RTVE aired a message of solidarity with Palestine, sparking rebuke from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which reminded national networks to maintain neutrality. Also read: Eurovision 2025 Semi-Finals: Schedule, lineups, how and where to watch Eurovision 2025: a grand final of music, messages, and mixed reactions This year's Eurovision Song Contest marked a softening of previous bans, with Palestinian flags visible in the arena for the first time since 2023. The Israeli National Security Council had previously advised Israeli attendees in Basel to maintain a low profile during the competition, anticipating unrest. The UK, represented by country pop trio Remember Monday, placed 19th with What The Hell Just Happened? While the act avoided a dreaded zero overall, it received no points in the public vote for the second year in a row. The UK's struggle at Eurovision continues, despite five historic wins. The last glimmer of hope came from Sam Ryder's runner-up finish in 2022 with Space Man . A celebration of music and a mirror to modern Europe The Eurovision 2025 grand final featured 26 nations and was hosted by an all-female trio with comedian Hazel Brugger, TV star Michelle Hunziker, and seasoned Eurovision personality Sandra Studer. Special performances included crowd favorites Baby Lasagna of Croatia, Finland's Kaarija, and reigning champion Nemo. Sweden, once a favorite with its quirky sauna-themed number Bara Bada Bastu , surprisingly came fourth. Ukraine maintained its strong Eurovision track record with a ninth-place finish, while The Netherlands secured 12th place with Claude's C'est La Vie , a calm return after last year's scandal. Also read: Eurovision 2025 finale: Finalists, winning odds, Céline Dion comeback rumours, how to watch on streaming, and vote As JJ raised the glass microphone, he not only marked a personal triumph but ushered Austria into the spotlight as the next host of Eurovision. The 2026 edition will mark the contest's 70th anniversary, and with it, a reflection of how Eurovision has become both a stage for artistry and a canvas for global conversations.
Irish Daily Mirror
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Eurovision 2025 final running order, schedule and full song list
Eurovision Song Contest fans are gearing up for the 2025 grand final this evening (Saturday, May 17) at 8pm. Following the semi-finals during the week to whittle down the competing nations, there are now just 25 countries in the final of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, reports the Express. Eurovision 2025 is taking place in Basel, Switzerland after artist Nemo was victorious with their track The Code last year Malmö, Sweden. This year's Eurovision grand final is being held at the Basel's St Jakobshalle venue, after the two semi-finals were held there on Tuesday, May 13 and Thursday, May 15. Here's a look at the full final running order as well as the song list for all 25 countries taking part in the show tonight. The Eurovision 2025 running order was determined by a draw. Following each of the semi-finals, there was a ballot to decide which half each nation would perform in, with each finalist getting either first half, second half or Producer's choice. If a country got Producer's choice, this means the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation (SRG SSR) decided where the country will be in the running order this year. This year's running order was announced shortly after the second semi-final on Thursday. It was already decided by draw that host nation Switzerland would be performing 19th in the running order. The 'Big Five' countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom), who automatically qualify due to being the biggest financial contributors to the competition, saw their place in the grand final running order announced after the semi-final they performed in. The grand final will be split into two halves with interval acts. Among this year's interval performers are reigning champions Nemo, who will perform a brand new song, singer Efendi who represented Azerbaijan in 2021 with her song Mata Hari, Lithuanian band The Roop will share their track that was intended for the cancelled 2020 Eurovision Song Contest, among many others. Here is the Eurovision 2025 final running order: 1. Norway | Kyle Alessandro – Lighter 2. Luxembourg | Laura Thorn – La Poupée Monte Le Son 3. Estonia | Tommy Cash – Espresso Macchiato 4. Israel | Yuval Raphael – New Day Will Rise 5. Lithuania | Katarsis – Tavo Akys 6. Spain | Melody – ESA DIVA 7. Ukraine | Ziferblat – Bird of Pray 8. United Kingdom | Remember Monday – What The Hell Just Happened? 9. Austria | JJ – Wasted Love 10. Iceland | VÆB – RÓA 11. Latvia | Tautumeitas – Bur Man Laimi 12. Netherlands | Claude – C'est La Vie 13. Finland | Erika Vikman – ICH KOMME 14. Italy | Lucio Corsi | Volevo Essere Un Duro 15. Poland | Justyna Steczkowska – GAJA 16. Germany | Abor & Tynna – Baller 17. Greece | Klavdia – Asteromáta 18. Armenia | PARG – SURVIVOR 19. Switzerland | Zoë Më – Voyage 20. Malta | Miriana Conte – SERVING 21. Portugal | NAPA – Deslocado 22. Denmark | Sissal – Hallucination 23. Sweden | KAJ – Bara Bada Bastu 24. France | Louane – maman 25. San Marino | Gabry Ponte – Tutta L'Italia 26. Albania | Shkodra Elektronike – Zjerm This year's contest has the theme of Unity Shapes Love with a total of 37 countries taking part, across all the shows. Hosts Hazel Brugger, Michelle Hunziker and Sandra Studer are presenting the Eurovision final. So far, it looks like Sweden's entry KAJ and their song Bara Bada Bastu is the frontrunner to walk away with the Eurovision trophy. Hot on their heels is Austria's JJ with the number Wasted Love, while Claude from the Netherlands is in a third place to win with C'est La Via - not to be confused with Irish girl band B*Witched's 1998 song of the same name. The Eurovision 2025 Grand Final is tonight on BBC One at 8pm
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Milkshakes, opera and lust as Eurovision semi votes counted
The 16 countries competing in the Eurovision Song Contest's second semi-final were at the mercy of TV voters across the continent and beyond as they awaited their fate on Thursday. Ten places were up for grabs in Saturday's grand final of the world's biggest live television music event, which revels in drama and kitsch. Bookmakers have Israel, Austria and Finland's entrants as their favourites to progress, alongside contestants from Malta, Australia and Lithuania. The semis and the final are being staged at the St. Jakobshalle arena in Switzerland's third city Basel, before 6,500 fans. But an audience of 160 million to 200 million is expected to tune in to Saturday's showpiece battle for the Eurovision crown. Australian social media powerhouse Go-Jo opened Thursday's show with "Milkshake Man", a song dripping in innuendo and 1970s glam vibes. Eurovision, the world's biggest live television music event, has a big following in Australia, and the country has competed since 2015. Norwegian singer Emmy appeared for Ireland with her space-themed song "Laika Party", featuring spangly silver outfits and a dance beat. Maltese diva Miriana Conte's performance of "Serving" featured a giant pair of lips and a glitterball, furs and fans and ended with her bouncing around on a rubber ball. Austria's JJ performed "Wasted Love", a song which builds in intensity, combining high-pitched operatic vocals and modern beats. Georgia's Mariam Shengelia brought snow queen vibes to her dramatic ballad "Freedom". And Finland's Erika Vikman was the last to take to the stage with "Ich Komme", a leather-clad song about falling into the trance of lust, finishing with the singer riding a golden microphone suspended in the air. - Protests over Israel's participation - Israel's participation in Eurovision 2025 has drawn protests over the war in Gaza. Its competitor Yuval Raphael survived the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the Gaza war, hiding beneath bodies as Hamas gunmen attacked a music festival, killing hundreds. Outside the St. Jakobshalle, dozens of protesters milled about on Thursday with Palestinian flags on their shoulders. Elsewhere in Basel, dozens attended a rally in support of Raphael, waving large Israeli flags. At Thursday's final dress rehearsal, six demonstrators, including a family, disrupted Raphael's performance with oversized flags and whistles and were ejected, the host broadcaster said. "The organisers are committed to a neutral, safe, inclusive and respectful environment at the Eurovision Song Contest," the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation added. - Hot pink and sequins - Thousands of hyped-up Eurovision fans, dressed to the nines in leopard print, sequinned dresses and even hot-pink zebra stripes, queued up early outside to take their places in the arena. They carried Danish, Finnish, Maltese and Israeli flags, while one woman wore a headband decorated with the flags of every competing country. Austrian fan Marcel Fina said JJ had every chance to win the final. "Definitely, it's a very good song. It's unique, it's special, that's what you need for Eurovision. He sings incredibly, and we have very good chances this year," he told AFP. Twenty-six countries will take part in Saturday's final. Eurovision's big five financial backers Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain have a guaranteed place in the final, as do hosts Switzerland. Basel is on the Swiss border with France and Germany and plenty of French fans like Fulvio Taponnier were backing their entrant Louane to win the crown on Saturday. "Honestly, the song is a very beautiful song. It's emotional, it speaks to a lot of people -- it can even speak to everyone. In terms of the performance, you really feel that she's invested in it, and that's also understandable given the lyrics," he said. Sweden are the overall hot favourites to win Eurovision, followed by Austria, then the Netherlands, France, Finland and Israel, according to the bookmakers. Comedy trio KAJ -- from Finland but representing Sweden -- are making their competitors sweat with their song "Bara Bada Bastu", about the joys of having a sauna. They came through Tuesday's first semi-final, as did Estonia's Tommy Cash with his Italian-accented "Espresso Macchiato" and Poland's Justyna Steczkowska, who first appeared at Eurovision in 1995. rjm/vog/sbk
Observer
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Eurovision stage a dynamic 3D 'playground': producer
The Eurovision Song Contest's groundbreaking stage, built in a race against time, is a hi-tech playground for artists performing at the world's biggest live music TV event, its producer told AFP. The stage is a behemoth that works like a Swiss army knife, with multiple possibilities to bring 37 very different three minute performances to life, said Eurovision co-executive producer Moritz Stadler. The annual television extravaganza's grand final on Saturday, and the semi-finals on Tuesday and Thursday, take place at the St. Jakobshalle arena in the Swiss city of Basel. The stage juts out into the arena, with the 6,500 audience on three sides, close up to the dazzling show of lasers, lights and state-of-the-art backdrops. "It's an atypical stage because it's quite iconic: it has never existed in this format," Stadler said as the 69th Eurovision got under way. "It's a stage that's in the whole arena, in both directions: there's no front, no back on this stage. There's an iconic frame in the middle of the arena. "We've noticed above all that countries are using the entire stage, and all the features. It means they've really found a playground that suits them." Stadler said the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation, the host broadcaster, had put together a stage set "like a Swiss army knife". "There are countless combinations and possibilities on this stage," and competitors "have to get to grips with this". - Like Swiss clockwork - Stadler said the staging had pushed the performers to stretch their imaginations. To win, "everyone has to surpass themselves and make the most of all these possibilities", he said. The competing countries "have increased their creativity and ideas tenfold, and have even pushed the possibilities of this stage further than our teams had imagined", elevating their performances to "simply astounding" levels. Some 500 people worked day and night over two and a half weeks to build the stage on time. "The biggest challenge is time. That is to say, it is a behemoth of Eurovision production. It's incredibly complex," said Stadler. "But in Switzerland, we know watchmaking and it worked very well." He said Eurovision had developed into a giant production, with today's over-the-top TV feast a world away from the first radio-focused Eurovision in a Swiss theatre in Lugano in 1956. There were seven competing singers and an orchestra. Europe's public service broadcasters "co-produce the biggest musical event in the world. If you had this idea today, you wouldn't be able to start it," said Stadler. An expected 160 million to 200 million viewers will watch the final, while around 1.2 billion interactions on social networks are anticipated. - 3D frame of light - Set designer Florian Wieder said the relatively small size of the arena -- in Eurovision terms -- meant the set could not be hung from the ceiling. Instead, everything is ground-supported by four disguised towers: two behind the video wall and two forming the front-of-stage frame. "We have a box of technical toys... we always try not to use all the toys at the same time, because that would be a total overload," he told a press conference. Wieder said everything which works live in the arena will also come across on television: particularly the energy and the audience connection. Lighting designer Tim Routledge said the set meant he could create a "three-dimensional frame of light using real clever, punchy equipment. So therefore we can make a scene disappear... in a heartbeat," he said. "We have these really cool... huge epic waves of light, which makes it look like we're bending light -- which is technically impossible." The set features 22 broadcast cameras, 4,500 lighting fixtures, 100 pyrotechnic positions, and eight kilometres (4.5 miles) of fibre optic cable. Stage prop changes, performed by a crew of 30 people, take 42 seconds. The set contains 750 square metres (8,000 square feet) of LED video wall, and 200 square metres of LED floor. —AFP
