People often say sequels don’t measure up. Yet Benidorm Fest defies that notion with a second helping of Euroclub energy, where the performances rebound after a chilly start featuring Tanxugueiras, Karina, and Ruth Lorenzo.
Following a cautious kickoff at Euroclub last Monday, a bite in the air and affordable tickets seemed to dampen the mood. But the mood has begun to lift as the nights gain momentum and more fans turn out to enjoy the wave of live sets.
30
Benidorm Fest 2023: Images from the Euroclub party. Karina, Tanxugueiras, Ruth Lorenzo and a lineup of artists brought dynamism to Penélope. photos by a local photographer
As in its debut, the evening opened with the now customary photo interview, a parade of returning acts from the festival’s first day. The energy came not only from the Wednesday night headliners but also from some semi-final participants who kept their edge, including Meler, Megara, and Sofía from Alicante, who carried themselves with confidence even when positioned later in the lineup.
The Galician trio Tanxugueiras, a crowd favorite from the previous year, returned to Benidorm with a notable evolution. Their refrain reflected a new sense of self and artistic direction: “Now we can live with dignity and pursue our own rhythm.”
Programming and events of Benidorm Fest 2023: all concerts and events parallel to the festival
Discussing their approach to music, the group noted their versatility. They explained they can blend different styles and remain open to collaborations that push boundaries.
Ruth Lorenzo, a former Spain’s Eurovision representative, delivered a standout performance last night, commanding the stage and drawing a crowd that filled the dance floor on Wednesday with a powerful display of vocal prowess.
Karina, the big winner
In the spotlight that night, Karina emerged as the unmistakable star of the event. The Jaén-born artist wore a gold-accented black tunic that caught every eye and set the tone for the party. Despite not being selected to represent Spain in this edition of Benidorm Fest, Karina won the hearts of eurofans who gathered to witness her return to the show’s most festive moment. Her confident welcome, promising a playful piruli moment, was met with thunderous applause and a visible display of affection from fans across the hall.
Her performance confirmed her enduring appeal among Eurovision enthusiasts, reinforcing the idea that the spirit of Benidorm Fest thrives on memorable personalities and live energy as much as on competition results. The crowd’s reaction underscored the festival’s ability to elevate artists who resonate with fans and leave a lasting impression, even if the final outcome lies elsewhere in the competition. This night demonstrated the festival’s capacity to blend competition with celebration, making Euroclub a crucial venue for connecting artists with a broad audience and fueling anticipation for future editions.