The process of finding a Host City for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest began directly after Måns Zelmerlöw’s victory in Vienna just over a month ago. “Stockholm has delivered a thorough offer which guarantees that the event once again is taken to the next level, says Martin Österdahl, Executive Producer for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of SVT. Österdahl also lead the production of the 2013 contest in Malmö, Sweden.
Stockholm = music
“Stockholm is music. Our city seethes with activity revolving music. Creativity is close to our hearts and is something that we want to emphasise and be noticed even more clearly in the city,” says Karin Wanngård, Mayor of Stockholm. “To be the Host City for the Eurovision Song Contest gives us the opportunity to reinforce and stimulate the involvement which the music creates for people in Stockholm and all that will travel here to take part of the Swedish musical wonder,” the proud Mayor added.
The agreement with Stockholm city entails that SVT is responsible for all the parts connected with the TV production, while the Host City will be responsible for all logistic solutions, the festivities for the participating countries, all fans and the media.
Second time for Globe Arena
The Globe Arena, which was completed in 1989, already hosted the Eurovision Song Contest before, back in 2000. The venue’s regular capacity is between 14,000 and 16,000 spectators, set design and camera plans will determine the final seating capacity for the three live shows.
The surrounding buildings of the Globe Arena complex will also be used. A press centre for more than 1,500 journalists will be located at the Hovet venue, delegations will house in Annex. “The jewel in the crown is that we can organise an even more powerful experience by incorporating the Tele2 Arena in the Grand Final,” said Österdahl.
Buying tickets
Tickets for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest are not expected to go on sale before the end of 2015. “Make sure you only buy your tickets through the official ticket partner, which will be announced in due time,” said Eurovision Song Contest Event Supervisor Sietse Bakker.
Who’s in?
EBU Member Broadcasters, on behalf of their countries, have until mid-September to formally submit their applications to take part in next year’s competition. The final list of participating countries will be released close to the end of the year. The Semi-Final Allocation Draw, to determine which countries take part in which of the two Semi-Finals, takes place in late January.
