Sweden and Abba took centerstage at Eurovision pre-event in Canberra

On May 2 the Embassy of Sweden in Canberra hosted a pre-event at the Hyatt Hotel to highlight the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden, later that in May. The gathering attracted about 350 guests from the Australian administration, the private sector, the diplomatic corps, and other Australian Eurovision enthusiasts.

Highlighting the evening was a spirited performance by opera singer Jade McFaul, who charmed attendees with Eurovision classics performed in an operatic style. Videos of this year’s finalists were also shown.

In his opening remarks, the Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission Mr. Per Linnér underlined that Eurovision serves as a celebration of the core values Europe embodies – the freedom of artistic expression, gender equality and cultural diversity. Originating as a peace initiative, its aim was to unite nations and individuals through the universal languages of music and culture.

The event provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen the image of Sweden in Canberra and to raise awareness about Sweden as a major music export country. This year marks 50 years since the pop band ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton in 1974 with the iconic song “Waterloo”. Abba and Eurovision are both strong brands in Australia.

The success of the event was made possible through collaboration with the Embassies/High Commissions of Cyprus, Czechia, European Union in Australia, Finland, Germany, Israel, Malta, Norway and ESCFAN OGAE Australia.