The stage is set and Newcastle is ready to party as excitement builds for Eurovision's big night.
A giant screen installed in the city's Times Square will be showing all the action live from the song contest and crowds of more than 1,700 Europop fans have snapped up tickets to enjoy the party atmosphere. And they will be able to enjoy entertainment this Saturday from 4pm onwards, with the likes of a karaoke singalong to get them in the mood.
Newcastle was one of seven cities in the UK shortlisted to host the international music contest and, having lost out to Liverpool, it was chosen to host an official party - which it is planning to deliver in style. Organised by Newcastle City Council, in partnership with the BBC, the event is set to see Times Square transformed into a sea of colour and sequins as fans gather for the grand final.
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The council says the crowds can expect performances by an "array of amazing acts" in the run-up to the live broadcast beginning at 8pm. Those who have bagged tickets - which are now sold out - can see award-winning drag performer and co-host Tess Tickle kick off the party with a DJ set at 4pm.
She will be there throughout the afternoon with karaoke and entertainment and will also perform with The Dragettes. Joining her on stage as co-host will be Ukrainian journalist and TV presenter Alex Fil.
Alex now lives in the North East and helped support Newcastle’s bid to become the host city. Some tickets for the Eurovision party were also offered free to Ukrainian residents now living here.
Also on the bill will be Sam Lavery, former star of The X Factor and now host of Capital North East's Drivetime show; singers Natalie Hallett and John-Philip and Abba tribute act Voulez 2.
Coun Alex Hay, council cabinet member for a 'Resilient City', said: “Eurovision is the biggest and best music event in the world and we were immensely proud to have been shortlisted to host the event. Newcastle was a strong contender throughout the process and, although we weren’t successful, we are delighted to be joining in on the celebrations by hosting an official party."
He added: “There is a real buzz in the city for the final and the party is a fantastic opportunity for people to come together and watch it all unfold on the big screen. The event promises to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment with all the glitz and glam Eurovision is famous for.”
Coverage of the Eurovision grand final will start at 8pm following a special Eurovision-theme episode of BBC1's The One Show.
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