Music
Olivia's Eurovision semifinal rehearsals continue
By MaltaMedia News
May 6, 2007 - 6:23:16 PM

Olivia Lewis’ second rehearsal for her Eurovision Song Contest entry Vertigo was held on Sunday afternoon, with the singer taking to the stage at Helsinki Arena, Finland in the dress she will wear during the semifinal round on Thursday.  

Olivia Lewis started rehearsing at around 1400CET, wearing a gown stylistically similar to the one she donned during the MaltaSong for Europe Festival, with the difference that it is yellow side-slit dress, characterized by turquoise prints.

 The performance accompanying Vertigo remained mostly unchanged from the one seen on Friday; however a wind machine has been added to the stage. Olivia was again flanked by violinist Joseph Chetcuti and gong-playing dancer Jes. Behind them, three female backing singers, two from Sweden and one from Finland, performed a routine with large fans.    

In a press conference held later during the afternoon, the singer confirmed that the dress she wore for Sunday’s rehearsal will also be worn during her performance in the semi-final.  

When asked whether she is feeling the pressure ahead of Thursday’s semifinal round after Malta’s result obtained in the Eurovision Song Contest last year, Olivia Lewis said she is instead feeling responsible, especially after the support she garnered from Maltese voters in the final round of the MaltaSong for Europe Festival.  

On the other hand, British betting company William Hill’s Eurovision Song Contest book placed Malta at odds of 25/1 of winning. When the company opened the book Malta’s odds were at 40/1. Stan James also placed Malta’s odds of winning at 40/1.

MaltaMedia.com will report live from Finland during Eurovision week with Toni Sant present at the Helsinki Arena.

For more detailed information about Malta's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest see EurovisionMalta.com.