Semi-Final One Eurovision Song Contest

This programme contains scenes of Repetitive Flashing Images.

Pryvit laskavo prosymo to Kiev in Ukraine.

It's the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.

It's good to be back where we belong.

Tonight, the first 18 countries sing, dance and,

in some cases, don a horse's head, for a place in the Grand Final

Plus the UK entry, Lucie Jones, will be right here answering your

questions, and she'll be joined by one of the writers

of her song, Emmelie "Champion of Eurovision" De Forest.

So, put your chicken kiev's down and let

What better way to kick off the show than with a montage

The motto for Eurovision this year is "celebrate diversity".

Last year Jamala won the competition,

And before you ask, yes, that's how you officially pronounce it.

The first and only other time Ukraine have won

Eurovision was back in 2004, after Ruslana won with Wild Dances.

Now, the key things you need to know about Kiev is also known

It's home to the deepest metro station in the world.

A lot of escalators. I cannot wait for you to meet our hosts, they are

quite something. Okay, they're kicking the show

off with a performance Apparently he's one of Ukraine's

biggest pop, R stars. # There is something

in the air in a million ways # There is something

in the games that people play # It turned out this world

# Spin my head, oh you're causing a riot

# Spin my head, oh you're causing a riot

# There is something in the air in a million ways

# There is something in the games that people play

# Your something girl # You are beautiful, the world

# Spin my head, oh you're causing a riot

# Spin my head, oh you're causing a riot

that was Monatik to start our first semifinal. Here are your

hosts, Oleksandr Skichko, Volodymyr Ostapchuk and Timur Miroshnychenko.

And for the first time in history, the show is presented by three men.

Good evening, Ukraine, Europe, planet Earth!

To everyone who has tuned in and made the journey here, thank you.

It's our honour and a great pleasure to welcome you all

to the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song

I'm Volodymyr Ostapchuk - call me Vova.

And I'm Timur Miroshnychenko, and I don't have a nickname

First, we must say thank you to Sweden for last year's

amazing Eurovision - Tack Stockholm for en

Now I think it's time we introduced the really important people -

Kiev, wave your flags and say hello to the world.

This year's theme is Celebrate Diversity.

It couldn't be more perfect for Eurovision, which brings

together nations and nationalities from across the globe,

bonded by the universal language of music.

Did you know that in 2016 over 204 million people worldwide watched

Eurovision with acts from 42 countries.

Technically it's the biggest entertainment show on Earth.

I will be in the Green room gathering data and hanging around

with the artists, and according to my schedule it is time to go there.

Give it up for Timur! Tonight is the first

of two semi-finals before the Grand Final on Saturday,

and, boy, have we got Tonight, we have 18 amazing

performances, from which you will Plus we'll get up close

and personal with acts from the United Kingdom,

Italy and Spain. While Vova does his bit in French,

I can tell you, that from tonight's 18 countries,

only ten will make it through to Tthe good news is that viewers

in the UK can vote tonight. There are two ways you will be

able to vote tonight. As always, you can vote by phone

and you can also vote via the app made by the people at Eurovision,

but you cannot vote by text. performances tonight contain

flashing images, strobe effect and the odd horses head. I can go on,

but we have only just started... No, it is the title of our first

It's the title of our first song from Sweden's Robin Bengtsson.

They are good. Always a lot of pressure when you have to go on

first but nothing stresses this guy out. I saw him earlier in his

dressing room chilling out, looking not bothered. His

name is Robyn Bengtsson. Also probably the first ever Eurovision

entry to use the word fricking. Robin and his dancers are using

treadmills and he fell off a lot in his first rehearsal which I don't

want to happen tonight. Here is Robyn from Sweden. I Can't Go On! .

# With just one look you make me shiver

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# I can't go on I can't go on

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# I can't go on I can't go on

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# I can't go on I can't go on

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# I can't go on I can't go on

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# I can't go on I can't go on

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

# I can't go on I can't go on

# When you look this freakin' beautiful

That is Robyn from Sweden. Hello to Elizabeth who is eating chicken

Kievs tonight! Lucie will be on our show later. This, my friends, I do

apologise to any Georgians watching. Tamara Gachechiladze. She is a

barrel of laughs, she is great fun to be with. Also known as... Look

what fun they are having. We have got smoke, fabric, drama. The UK

gave Georgia 12 points last year interestingly so let's see what she

can do this evening. Good luck to Tamara from Georgia.

# Who told you to hide behind the veil?

# Who told you to get out of the way?

# Don't you let them steal your dreams

# Feel the courage spread your wings and breathe

# Who told you that I've reached the points with no regrets

# Who told you that my life is a book of fairy tales

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE . Come on gang. Several key changes

and a cloak. Flapping around in the wind machine there. Beautiful stuff.

It's really hot next to those pyros in the rehearsals. Dan says, I don't

know who the hosts are, but I'll have the one on the right please.

What we're talking over at the start of every song with the post cards.

These are like the artist's journey to the contest. Next we have

Australia. The next two performances contain flashing images and strobe

effects. Australia were seconds last year. They've only been in the

competition since 2015. They've always been top five. I don't feel

bitter about that in any way. I wish them the best of luck. This is

17-year-old Isiaha. This is called Don't Come Easy.

# I can tell by your eyes you want more than this

# But can we be much more beyond these sheets

# I used to move in fast to erase my past

# But it never works No it never lasts no

# In my mind I gotta get things right

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE thank you so much, Europe!

Another sockless man on stage. The eyebrows though. Amazing. I do say

this every year, if you're going to wear socks, or no socks, just make

sure you have talc in your shoes. This is Albania, Lindita. Very

sporty. I have a bone to pick with Lindita. I was supposed to meet her

yesterday. No, don't do this. And she didn't turn up. She was tired.

She left me hanging. I was supposed to meet up with her for a chin wag.

Too busy in the gym or making bridal wear no doubt. I won't hold it

against her. I'm sure she's very good. She loves eggs. Eats a lot of

eggs before her performance. # It don't make sense,

what's happening # Ah!

Can you hear my painful cry # What's the cost of

life In this world? # What's the cost of

life in this world? # What's the cost of

life in this world? # What's the cost of

life in this world? She didn't breathe once. Albania may

rule the world with this ballad. Hashtag 12 points. Next, this is

Belgium and Blanche. This post card you're about to see, she is playing

piano with her grandfather. No, that's not her grandfather, that's

clearly her grandmother - I hope! Blanche has got the range. She can

go really low. She can also go really high. Not only that, Blanche

can move one of her toes telepathically. Completely

independent of her other toes. It's quite a treat to see. Check out my

red carpet at Eurovision on BBCi player. You can see her toes. You

can't move your toe telepathically. You move it with your nerves. She

can. Blanche one of the favourites from the fans this year.

# Let's put some light into our lives

# But keep the storm that's in your eyes

# Let's put some light into our lives

# To lose it all. # To lose it all. Down

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE . We all love Blanche. Don't forget

we will chat to the UK entry, Lucie, later on. We would love your

questions for her. Contact us by the BBC Eurovision website, Facebook or

Twitter. Now my friends, this is something to look out for. This is

Slavko Kalezic. Mainly I'm going to focus on his detachable hair braid,

which is a metre long and sits proudly on the top of his crown.

Look at him, whipping it around there. He whipped you with it,

didn't he? Yes, surprisingly heavy. He has a travel version which he

travels with her. Like a travel kettle or iron. It's as neat as a

Suffolk punch horse, that braid. What? Now he's going to sing Space.

Listen to the words, please. # Wet dreams, wild

nightmares, I surrender # Be my Bonnie,

will mix and match with Clyde # I have my suit on,

no need to worry # Give me your body,

let's write a story # I have my suit on,

no need to worry # Give me your body,

let's write a story # I'll protect you

if you come my way # I have my suit on,

no need to worry # Give me your body,

let's write a story # I have my suit on,

no need to worry # Give me your body,

let's write a story # I have my suit on,

no need to worry # Give me your body,

let's write a story # Takin' off,

we're takin' off, takin' off # Takin' off,

we're takin' off, takin' off The hands on the belt dancing can go

immediately, change that. Hello Sam, Susie and Charlie who are missing

master chef for this but strangely mesmerised. Absolute quality. They

are back. So that was the first six songs,

and just a reminder that UK viewers can vote tonight,

but you can only vote by calling. The lines don't open

until all acts have performed. It is the easiest way to vote. Plus

you can download the songs and watch exclusive footage capturing the

backstage atmosphere. Plus you can download

all the songs and watch It turns your phone

into a second screen, Thank you, Vova,

for changing my life. OK, guys, welcome to the Eurovision

Song Contest Support Group. Good to see so many of you

back this week, and I'm pleased to say we've

got a brand-new member. So if you'd like to

introduce yourself? Hi, I'm Lucie Jones,

the representative for the UK. OK, let's go around

and get everyone's names. Hi, everyone, I'm Sarbel,

and I represented Greece in 2007. I'm Nikki French, and I represented

the United Kingdom in 2000, with a song called Don't Play That

Song Again. My name is Thea Garrett,

and I represented Malta in 2010. I'm Anjeza Shahini, the first person

ever to represent Albania. If you'd like to now tell them

about you, in a nutshell? I grew up in South Wales,

and I now live in London. I work in musical theatre,

and I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, and I can actually play the theme

tune on the flute. Now, we're all here obviously

to support each other, so Lucie, what would

you like to know? If you had one piece of advice

for me, what would it be? Look out for the slippery stage,

because dancers who are half naked, they've got loads of oil

on their bodies, and it Make sure you don't have a bird

in your act of Eurovision because for the past seven years

I've just been known Make sure you have a second pair

of shoes, because mine got stuck

in the hole on stage. Of course, one of the biggest things

you have to be prepared for is... "Oh, my goodness, we've

got 12 points" face! I guess there's just one more

thing to do before we go. This is Eurovision 2017

with 12 acts still to go. Next up, it's Finland,

the home of saunas, ice Speaking of birds,

please show lots of love So this is Finland. Confusingly

their act is called Finland Sun. They are very keen to tell you when

you meet than that they are just friends, there is absolutely nothing

going on between them. See if you can spot any chemistry. Matching

clothes? Swapping shades? They think they are the act that is really

different to Eurovision this year. Get in touch about what you think

about the performances tonight. This is Norma John with Blackbird.

# Blackbird, blackbird, don't sing to me

# Fly somewhere else, don't bother me

# You sang when my heart sang

# Now you remind me of something I'll never have

# Blackbird, blackbird, I am now alone

# Don't nestle here, go find lovers of your own

# Now you remind me of something I'll never have

# You sang when he was in my bed

# You sang when my heart sang

# Now you remind me of something I'll never have

Norma John, I apologise, I cut in rudely before you had finished. She

really did think you had finished though. Look at the mobile phones

and the tortures. I have no idea how to do that. I can do it for you.

Just swipe up. This is Azerbaijan with a band called Dihaj. I like

this group, they have a real ladder, chalk and lack boards and stuff. I

love it. It is Edinburgh festival circa '88. Look, his daughter!

Reminds me, girls, at home, have you done your homework? This is Dihaj

with Azerbaijan Sun -- Skeletons. # Standing in a mirror lane

wondering what to do # Another day and gravity's got,

got another hold of me # I never dreamed that this could be

happening, not to me # But if he came falling down

falling so hard, I started believing # (I can only

trick you once, bad boy) # (Talk is cheap, don't speak

in tongues, bad boy) # Drum drum

drum, bring out the guns # (Drum drum drum, bring

out the guns, bad boy) # (Fuss and fight

won't get you tons) # The world is spinning

faster by the minute # This bittersweet sensation got a,

got another hold of me # (I can only trick

you once, bad boy) # (Talk is cheap don't speak

in tongues, bad boy) # (Drum drum drum, bring

out the guns, bad boy) # (Fuss and fight

won't get you tons) # (I can only

trick you once, bad boy) # (Drum drum drum, bring out

the guns, bad boy) # Fuss and fight won't

get you tons, bad boy # (I can only

trick you once, bad boy) # (Talk is cheap don't speak

in tongues, bad boy) # (Drum drum drum, bring

out the guns, bad boy) Only at Eurovision, gang. Ryan's

saying that perfectly describes his school experience. Next it is

Portugal. They didn't enter last year, presumably they couldn't be

bothered but they are back and this is Salvador. It's what I would call

an eccentric performance but that is Salvador Sobral. He used to be

addicted to social media but one day he quit it all and feels like a new

man. That means if you think he's rubbish tonight you can't even let

him know, he cannot hear you. This song was written by his sister. From

Portugal, it is Salvador. # Ouve as minhas preces

# Peco que regresses CHEERING AND APPLAUSE

. Loads of tweet with this. Listen, the crowd love. It I've got a

feeling about him. Frarchingy on Twitter says, come on Portugal.

Winner. Portugal, I love it says wonder puffs on Twitter.

That was the fantastic Salvador Sobral from Portugal.

here's a few of our favourites. Katherine, "Have you ever had a bad

hair day Alex? Of course not. This one says she has paid me a -- baked

me a special Eurovision cake. That's lovely, I need to put some weight,

yeah. From Sweden, "Alex, I'm watching a show from a hot tub way

bottle of champagne and wondering whether you... What? Actually we

don't need to know what they're wondering.

So please keep sending your messages and thoughts you can

tweet the show at hashtag CelebrateDiversity hashtag ESC2017.

Up next it's Demy from Greece with This Is Love.

So we have Demy singing for Greece. She's currently in Mamma Mia in

Athens. Well not tonight. If you've booked a ticket to see her tonight,

I'm sorry. The understudy. Parentally she's very good. --

apparently she's very good. Things to look out for - her staging

contains some live water. OK. It's in the form of a, sort of, foot bath

that you might have found at the leisure centre, in the mid-80s, but

there's nothing floating in there like a plaster. It's basically two

fit blokes in a paddling pool. Yes, it's brave, bold.

# Holding on to what we had can be so complicated

# Could be time to move along

# Watched the river running dry

# How I want you here for ever and ever

# You and me as one everywhere

# Holding on to what we had can be so self-destroying

# Remember how we laughed and played around

# How I want you here for ever and ever

# You and me as one everywhere

# You and me as one everywhere

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE Thank you so much. Just a reminder

to those backing singers in the foot baths, no running, no petting, no

diving. Chris says, don't tell me what love is Greece. The horse man

from Montenegro has told me all I need to know, hashtag Eurovision.

Aaron is convinced that Portugal is wearing Herman Munster's jacket.

Next it's Kasia. Her dad is a conductor. Her mum a violinist. In

that post card she is visiting her dad's orchestra rehearsal. Sweet. In

next performance and the next few in fact, contain flashing images and

strobing. For Poland this is Kasia Mos. The

track is Flashlight. Any relation to Kate Moss? Don't

know. # They try to tell us

that we don't belong # Creeping round at

the depth of night # Just two shadows

in love we were ghosts # When we're together,

we're untouchable # It's like a flashlight

burning in our eyes # You call the dogs off,

I got them hypnotized # You never catch us,

take us by suprise # Running faster

at the speed of light # Falling deeper,

got you in the sight # We're shadows in

love, we were ghosts # Fire, like a burning

desire # It's like a flashlight

burning in our eyes # You call the dogs off,

I got them hypnotised # You never catch us,

take us by suprise # Running faster

at the speed of light # Falling deeper,

got you in our sight # Bringing down your

eyes in the sky #. CHEERING AND APPLAUSE

Thank you Europe, I love of all. On Twitter, when, when, when will

Poland churn butter on stage again. I think that's been done. This is

SunStroke Project from Moldova. After their appearance in 2010, the

saxophonist in the band, it went mad for him on YouTube, 50 million

YouTube hits after that appearance. Known as the epic sax guy, there he

is. We're going to see him again tonight. They've got a signature leg

move. Also, let's know if you think he really is playing that sax.

Interesting. The leg move is good. It's a stiff leg action, little bit

like when Angelina Jolie wore that very slit skirt. Check it out.

This is SunStroke Project. What a terrible name for a band.

# You will never hide what you think of me

# Know, you worry, but it don't meant to be

# It's your girl and maybe should sleep at home

# She will disappear tonight with me.

# Do what other guys did before.

# It's your girl and maybe should sleep at home

# She'll be back home till sunrise #.

# She'll be back home till sunrise #.

# Hey mama, mama # Hey mama, mama, mama

# Hey mama, hey mama # Hey mama, hey mama#

Come on! Oh, yeah. All right. Come on.

# Hey ma, ma, ma. # On social media, they don't think

he's playing the sax. Oh, interesting. Very catchy that,

though. Shout out to the brides in the background for no particular

reason there. There's a lot of bridal wear in the show. Cardiff

says, like Mr Saxo beat. Do you remember that song. Get in touch and

let us know what you think of the songs and the acts tonight. Be

honest. I know you will. So many people tweeting along. This is

Iceland. I kind of hope they qualify tonight because they haven't since

2014. This girl is Svala. She is a coach on the Icelandic version of

the Voice. In her spare time she likes to bathe in unicorn tears. She

told me this on the red carpet. You can watch it on the iPlayer. Because

I'm British, I politely smiled and nodded. Secretly I thought that was

a really weird thing to say. Her song is called Paper.

Remember to get in touch and tell us what you

# I know I wasn't a part of your plan

# I know you think that you're being a man

I just want her to get back with 'Aggie again, Kim and Aggie were the

best. It's about the relationship you have with yourself, yeah?

We have had some incredible performances, but don't forget,

it's you at home that will decide who goes through to

Download the Eurovision app, where you can find out

more about the acts, vote for them or just

If you're vain and love looking at yourself.

We have seen 13 acts, but we have five more

waiting for their moment in the Eurovision spotlight.

While they take a break on stage, let's head over

I feel free, I'm out of the commentary box, there is dancing and

air and look who is here, we have the own one and only Lucie Jones and

one of the co-writers of her song and Eurovision champ 2013.

I must ask you first, how does it feel to be back here? It is

different to performing, all in the background so it is nice. Is it a

relief not to be performing? It is not as stressful so I'm really happy

Lucie is singing. Lucie, you have some new slippers on, take us

through it. These were stolen from my hotel today. But you're going to

take them back, aren't you? Of course I will! We have a lot of

questions for you. Imogen asks who came up with the idea for your

staging? Because it is gorgeous. A genius man called Dan Shipton who

showed me the original sketch he took of the Mirror shards. It all

came from his imagination, I don't know how these people do it. Are you

pleased with how it looks and sounds? It's amazing, the dress and

lights are perfect, I'm so excited for Saturday. We are also excited,

good luck on Saturday. Back to you, Scott.

Just a reminder that UK viewers can vote tonight.

We'll give you all the numbers after the last act has performed.

13 acts have performed and there are five to go.

Soon we'll be opening the voting lines and the power

So what do you need to be a Eurovision winner - a great song?

Can you guess who's up next, Vova? I've no idea.

Give it up Eurovision for Martina Barta with My Turn.

So this is the Czech Republic. It is Martina Barta. Obviously do look at

her performance because she is just great, but behind there is some kind

of backdrop in people in just their bras and pants. I don't know what

resemblance that bears to the song because the song is called Might

Turn. -- My Turn. You might ask where you can get an outfit like

that and the answer is 1983. Here is Martina Barta and the song is My

Turn. # From the very, very

first time I saw you # You were my home,

you were home, you were my home # Now that you are falling,

let me be your calling # Be your one prayer,

keep away the bad things # In this moment let me give

to you what you've given to me # I'll be waiting

always by your side # You were there to pick me

up # From the billion

hearts to choose between # Oh, I was your choice,

I was your choice, so let me # Be your salvation

and joy # You know that I love

it when you call # Be your one prayer,

keep away the bad things # In this moment let me give

to you what you've given to me # I'll be waiting

always by your side # You were there to pick me

up # You know that I love

it when you call # I'll be waiting

always by your side # You were there to pick me

up A quick correction to make, the song

also out of 1983 there. Lord Lama says I have got a turkey I need to

roast, anyone got any foil they can give me? This is Hovig and I can

report he will be sockless. Forming for Cyprus. He might be wearing the

socklets. I don't really care. In 2009 he entered the Greek version of

X factor and came seventh. He is singing for Cyprus tonight, Gravity.

# I can be the cure, oh

# Let me be your heart and your company

# I'll let you be the one who can lean on me

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

# Let me be your wings when you're flying high

# I'm gonna raise you up till you touch the sky

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

# Let me be your heart and your company

# I'll let you be the one who can lean on me

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

# Let me be your wings when you're flying high

# I'm gonna raise you up till you touch the sky

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

# Let me be your heart and your company

# I'll let you be the one who can lean on me

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

# Let me be your wings when you're flying high

# I'm gonna raise you up till you touch the sky

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

# I'll catch you when you fall, when you're fallin' free

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE A lot of people saying it's a very similar

backing to the rag and bone man track.

James has been on, Sam, Bronwen and Elizabeth. I mean the vocal not, but

the backing track I see will what you mean. 18 tracks are performing

tonight, only ten will go through, and the last three songs this

evening contain flashing images and strobe effects. Also in this one,

look out for the shaky camera effects which suggests drama is

about to happen. Armenia. This is Artsvik and the track is Fly With

Me. This lady was in The Voice in Russia. Here she is in the

competition in the semifinal. # Take it from my heart

it's gonna be your beat # Take it from my soul

it's gonna be your heat # Over deeps, over

hills # She casts her wings and now it

feels # A sun who is love

and light's the same # Fly with me high, oh, high,

with me high, oh, high # Never stop believing that

love will take us high # Fly with me high, oh, high,

with me high, oh, high # Never gonna stop believing that

love's for you and I # Fly with me high, oh, high,

with me high, oh, high # Never stop believing that

love will take us high # Fly with me high, oh, high,

with me high, oh, high # Never gonna stop believing that

love's for you and I #. CHEERING AND APPLAUSE

It makes me sad now that eight of the acts are going to get the first

economy flight home in the morning, probably feeling like absolute

losers. I don't like it. I want them all to stay. Please excuse me. Mel.

I never want to turn down a baked good. Oh, my word. I'm having some

Ukrainian shortbread. It's delicious. Do you want me to take

this, or are you fine? I'm good. Great crumb structure. Now Slovenia,

Omar Naber. He divides his time between being a busker on the London

Underground and being back home. If things don't work out for him and

you see him at Tottenham Court Road, for example, throw him a coin, give

him a smile. I can a good feeling here that he's going to do well.

Delicious. Singing for Slovenia, this is Omar Naber, On My Way.

# You've all been very kind but I made up my mind

# Now I'm about to leave you all behind

# Before the rise of sun, I will be gone

# And I'll pray I'm never gonna crack

# Lights will guide you through the night

# Still hiding in my shell and keeping to myself

# Before the break of dawn, I will be gone

# And I'll pray I'm never gonna crack

# Lights will guide you through the night

# Yeah, yeah, yeah # Yeah, yeah, yeah

# Yeah, yeah, yeah Yeah, yeah. # And I'll pray I'm

never gonna crack # Lights will guide you through the

night. # On my way #

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE Thank you Omar. Steve says, "I

thought the guy from Slovenia was actually Scott Mills. Easy, Steve.

Scotty's not happy. If only I could sing that well. OK, can't believe

we're at the last act. Stop it. Semifinals have flown by. This is

Triana Park from rat Sreeament they like to prepare -- from Latvia. They

like to prepare for the show by eating Nutella. If it goes wrong

tonight, the guitarist doesn't care because he claims to be one of the

best Barristas in all of Latvia. I bet he could the shapes on the top

of latte or whatever. Other spreads are available. This is Triana Park

with Line. # But babe, tell me

how will I find it # If all I see is you,

all I see is you # All I see is you,

all I see # Tell me, babe

# Where we draw the line? # Tell me babe

# When will we draw the line? # Tell me babe,

# When will we draw the line? # Tell me babe

# When will we draw the line? # Tell me babe,

# When will we draw the line. # Tell me babe,

# When will we draw the line? # All I see is you

# All I see # All I see is you

# All I see # All I see is you

# Will we draw the line? # Tell me, babe

# Will we draw the line? # Tell me baby

# Will we draw the line? # Tell me baby

# Will we draw the line? # Tell me, baby

# Oh, will we draw the line? # Tell me, babe

# Will we draw the line? # Tell me, babe whsh will we draw

the line? # CHEERING AND APPLAUSE

There we are, the last act tonight, Latvian Katy Perry. Yeah. Good luck

one and all. That's it. All the performances are done.

A colourful performance from Triana Park.

So Vova, what is tonight's big question?

It's who from tonight's competition will be going

We have seen all 18 acts, but only ten can go through.

In a moment, we will start the voting.

You can call, text or use the Eurovision app.

Voting will open shortly and will remain open for approximately 15

minutes. Please don't vote yet because your vote won't count and

you may still be charged. UK viewers cannot vote by text. Please ask the

bill payer's permission. Calls cost 15p plus any network

access charge and please ask You can also vote using

the Eurovision app. Votes made via the app

cost 15p from a mobile. For full terms and conditions,

and details of how to get The lines will open in just a sec.

Now you can give something back. To vote from your landline

you will need to call: Or to vote from your mobile,

you will need to call 6 22 52 followed by the number

of the country you want to vote for. Here we go. All together, Europe,

start voting now! So if you'd like to vote

for Sweden, call the number Lines are open now and for

approximately 15 minutes. To vote for Georgia,

dial the number followed by 02. Remember, UK viewers

cannot vote by text. Last year's competition was full

of great songs and amazing talent. The final was incredibly close,

which only makes us more proud that Jamala won and brought Eurovision

here to Kiev. Tonight, she is here to perform

again, with a very special version But first, let's go back

to Stockholm last year and that Our points go to Ukraine! Ukraine!

Ukraine! Ukraine! Everything can now change as you at home of the final

vote. We have the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2016, it is

Ukraine! I hope everyone was singing along at

home. They love her in the arena. That was Jamala, last year's winner.

Thank you so much. Tell me about the years since your victory. It was a

great year. I met so many great people. Thank you so much to my

fans. I have made so many gifts. And actually I got married.

Congratulations! Thanks, Jamala, she will be returning later in the show

and also performing her new single in the grand final on Saturday.

Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for Jamala. She's having a lovely time.

There will be every couple of all the songs in a moment.

-- there's going to be a recap of all the

You know the drill, from a landline dial:

Or to vote from your mobile call 6 22 52

followed by the number of the

country you want to vote for tonight.

For full terms and conditions go to bbc.co.uk/Eurovision.

Don't go anywhere because soon you will see the UK's entry performance

by Lucie Jones and it is great. Just a little idea of what to expect when

she performs on Saturday on BBC One. So if you'd like to vote

for Sweden add 01. To vote for Georgia dial

the number followed Right now people all over the world

are voting for their favourites, If you want to see a song

in the Grand Final, vote Don't cross your fingers and hope.

Now it's time to vote. You can call, text or use the app.

You have less than one minute to play yours.

The numbers you need are on screen now.

All the acts can do now is wait and hope.

Eurovision may be about celebrating togetherness, but it's still a

All acts desperately want to be champion.

and family are nervously watching, wishing them luck.

But remember, don't just wish - vote!

You could change a performer's life tonight.

Desiat, deviat, visim, sim, shist...

Five, four, three, two, one - Stop voting now!

Your vote won't count and you may still be charged.

And now, an artist who is very special to Eurovision and Ukraine.

It is time to meet once again an old friend.

There are many stars in the music world, but perhaps only one

If I say they danced Lasha Tumbai you might be able

This is a bit strange, but I might enjoy it.

# Waterloo, I was defeated you won the war.

# Waterloo, promise to love you forever more

# Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

# Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

# Hallelujah # Hallelujah...

Welcome to Kiev. APPLAUSE

I think Varka is a bit a character. Head to the website and see what

happened when I spent the day with a huge Ukrainian pop star. Married to

a billionaire. Went round her huge house, had some caviar. Did some

traditional cossack dancing and plate breaking which they do to

relieve stress. It's on the website. The only Jamala!

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE That was last year's winner Jamala.

Little bit scared by the box hedge lady. Was there talk of a talking

cabbage. I'm here in the green

room with all 18 acts. Like a wild musical one-night stand,

all our artists can do now is lie back in the pillows,

light a cigarette and wonder So while they wait nervously, let's

remind them how amazing they were. At his age, my biggest achievement

was kissing Oksana Skybinska Let me introduce you to a Eurovision

talent who has achieved an unbelievable amount

in his 17 years. Hello Europe. We have a couple of

seconds to say hello to the whole world. Hi everyone back at home,

thinking about you guys, and yeah, wow this is incredible. Incredible.

Good luck to you. . A Union Jack behind him there, I

know the rest of the Australia flag was there - but couldn't see it! Now

time toe get a sneaky -- to get a sneaky peak at three of the big

five's performances, including our Lucie Jones with the UK's entry this

year. I'm here with Manel

Navarro from Spain. What kinds of things have you ever

done for your lovers? You know, it depends on the level of your love.

But you know, crazy things. How are you feeling to be presenting your

country in this Saturday's Grand Final? It's awesome. It's a massive

feeling. Eurovision is something so big. So hi Europe! How are you

doing? Raise your hands. Here's a clip of Manel performing

his song on our Eurovision stage. # Do it for your lover,

do it for your lover, baby # Do it for your lover,

do it for your lover, baby # Do it for those

you ever care and love # Just do it, just do it, just do it

for your lover # Just do it for your lover

# Just do it # Just do it for your lover

# Do for your lover # Clap your hands and do it for your

lover... Here she is. Lucie welcome Hello, hi everyone. You have seen

all the performances on stage tonight, has it made you more or

less nervous about the final on Saturday? I think I'm definitely

more excited now. I'm feeling the nerves having been in the arena and

seen all the amazing performances. Definitelying more excited. You told

me earlier that you are an actor in musicals. How do you think that

experience has prepared you for tonight? I'm on stage every day. So

I trust myself on stage. I feel like I can come out here and do a good

performance, I hope any way. OK, we wish you all the best for Saturday's

Grand Final and now here's a clip of Lucie's track Never Give Up On You.

# Together we'll dance through this storm

# We're running through this magic # It's inside of you

# This madness # This madness

# Now you can see how far you've walked

# The mountains climbed # The oceans

# Together we'll dance through this storm

What did you think about that, let us no? This year's competition is

about celebrating diversity and you cannot get more diverse than

performing on stage with another species so tell us more about the

meaning of this song and a gorilla on stage. I want you to know that

the gorilla shows that at the end of the day we are all like naked apes,

as the famous etymologist says in his book, The Naked Ape. We wish you

all the best, and now a clip of Francesca's song recorded live on

stage. # Quando la vita si

distrae cadono gli uomini So, that was three of the big five.

In the next semifinal we will meet France and Germany, and of course

the host nation Ukraine! All of them automatically go through to the

grand final, where they will be delighting us with their live

performances this Saturday night. We're just a couple of steps away

from finding out who the ten But first we need to make sure

the votes were properly counted. To do this, we must consult

the all-seeing eye, the executive supervisor

of the Eurovision Song Contest, the Yoda in our galaxy of musical

stars, Mr Jon Ola Sand. Thank you for your very generous

introduction. I can confirm we have processed all of the votes. It has

all gone successfully and according to the rules of the Eurovision Song

Contest. So, that means we are ready for you to reveal the result and

find out who will be returning on Saturday for the grand final. So,

Alex, take it away. Take a deep breath,

because this is it. It's time we find which ten

countries you at home and the national juries are sending

through to Saturday's Grand Final. The countries will be

revealed in random order. So can I! The first finalist is...

Moldova! They haven't qualified since 2013, altogether they have

qualified six times. Well done to Moldova and that signature leg move.

And the second one is Azerbaijan. I'm pleased, Azerbaijan 100%

qualification record. And the third finalist is... Greece! Yes, they are

through. 12 years since their win. Actually they last won in Kiev,

2005. And the last finalist is... Sweden! On the old treadmills. They

have appeared in the final nine times in the last ten years, top

five in the last three. Once again, good luck everyone. The fifth

finalist is... Portugal! He is a bit of a favourite here with the crowd.

He took one year out last year, lost qualified in 2010, and Portugal have

waited 33 years. Our next finalist is Poland. Well done, qualified four

times in the last ten years. They look very happy. Our seventh

finalist is... Armenia! Well done to them, they look well chuffed. They

have only missed the final once since their debut. Huge

congratulations to our seven finalists. For them, the pressure is

off. But there are only three spots left. And we have 11 countries. So

who else will be going through to the grand final? The eighth finalist

is... I'm sweating. Australia! Well done, only the second time Australia

have appeared in the semis and they won their semi last year. I feel so

nervous for the fact. Me too. The ninth finalist is... Cyprus! Cyprus,

Gravity, still wearing the pearly king jacket, you are through. Well

done. Now, nine acts remain, but there is only one ticket to

Saturday's grand final. Who will win it and get their moment of

Eurovision glory? Thank you for coming to Kiev and entertaining us.

Port us out of our misery! You have worked so hard, travelled so far,

you gave your all tonight. One place left. Who will be going to the grand

final on Saturday? Come on, lads, just tell us, this is too much. The

tenth finalist is... Belgium! She is through! Well done to Belgium. They

finished top ten in the last two years. I'm pleased for her. The

tears are flowing, commiserations to the others. She is going to need a

good night's sleep. But will one of them lift the Eurovision Trophy on

Saturday? Here they are again, your best tonight winning songs.

You have chosen your ten winners who will join

Ukraine and the countries from the Big Five on Saturday.

If you need more Eurovision there's lots on the way!

Who will be crowned the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2017?

Could it be one of these acts you voted for tonight?

On Thursday, we return for more excitement,

songs and emotions with another 18 countries all vying for a spot

I am back with Lucie, did you love that show tonight? Yes, it is

electric in here. Who are you pleased for that went through?

Moldova, the bride and the dancing, I loved that one. When Moldova got

announced you went yeah! I did tell you Eurovision was mad, was I

correct? Yes, I should have listened, it is crazy. There is a

lot of love for your performance. Mark Beckett wants to know if you

could sing in another language which one would you choose? I would pick

Welsh. First Welsh entry ever. The best of luck on Saturday night on

BBC One. We are back on BBC 44 semifinal number two, that Saturday

night, BBC Four, eight o'clock.