With only a few hours left before the first Benidorm Fest semi-final begins, nerves are running high. The event brings not only the competing artists on stage with their proposals, but also a slate of performers presenting premieres before and after the main acts. Ruth Lorenzo, Marc Calderó, and Ana Prada will anchor the opening, while Inés Hernand, Aitor Albiza, and Jordi Cruz will close the lineup for the evening. The sextet gave a taste of their mood in the electric setting of El Castell de Benidorm as the four artists confirmed to perform on stage during this inaugural gala were announced.
Vicco will be among them. The singer returns to the Benidorm Fest stage after appearing last year as a guest artist, this time leading with Night Light. The track has already found an audience, and its notes will echo from the Palau d’Esports L’Illa in Benidorm on Tuesday. Sharing the spotlight with Vicco are Abraham Mateo, Beret, and Mr. Rain. In this first semi-final, Lérica performs Astronaut, Noah sings I Miss You, Sofia Colll presents Here Stay, Mantra performs You Will See Me, Miss Caffeina delivers Dot Dot Dot, Quique Nice performs Prisoner, Angy Fernández sings I Know Who I Am, and Nebulossa closes with Bitch.
RTVE Communications Director María Eizaguirre announced the participants and confirmed the semi-final start time of 22:40. Responding to numerous requests to begin earlier, the television director stated the decision was made in the program’s best interest and assured audiences it will run in a tight, focused format, lasting less than two hours.
So, how do the presenters feel hours before the show starts? Ruth Lorenzo, hosting the event, admitted, “I’m sensing the wave rising. My nerves are on edge, yet I’m thrilled and impressed by this year’s stage and production.” Her role as host also marks a special milestone, given her own Eurovision journey a decade ago and her ongoing connection to Benidorm Fest’s energy.
For Marc Calderó, the countdown has shrunk to a heartbeat moment. He described poring over the script and rehearsing until everything felt ready, noting, “We’ve been waiting for this. When you step on stage for the first tests, you already feel the Eurovision energy.” He hinted at surprises in the later segments and added, “It’s going to be fantastic.” Ana Prada echoed his excitement in a single line: “I’m so excited. I’ve counted the days to this moment.” He also recalled that the venue’s magic was palpable even before the show began, when the stage lay empty in silence.
Those handling the pre-premiere and post-premiere coverage also shared their initial thoughts. Inés Hernand kept a light, friendly tone, saying, “I’m so happy to share this moment. It’s all about celebrating laughter, music, and talent from home.” She urged viewers not to limit attention to Eurovision alone but to recognize Benidorm Fest as a remarkable event in its own right.
After the premiere, Aitor Albiza announced that the day’s coverage would be packed and lively, encouraging audiences to stay tuned until morning. He spoke of embracing the finalists and celebrating the journey, while also acknowledging those who did not advance, noting the show would be a live window into audience reactions. Jordi Cruz described the pre-premiere segment as a bridge to connect with viewers and share special footage on stage.
Ruth Lorenzo: “My mission is to support artists”
The focus for Ruth Lorenzo has shifted this year toward a more supportive role for singers and performers. She aims to offer encouragement and warmth, helping artists manage nerves and perform at their best. Lorenzo believes each performance marks a significant moment in a performer’s career, with lasting impressions that can be revisited later. She emphasizes that candidates have only a few minutes to make an impact, which heightens the pressure of sound checks and live vocals, exposing who handles the spotlight best. The experience of Eurovision is unparalleled, she notes, making the festival an extraordinary event to cover and enjoy alongside audiences.
As the presenter, Lorenzo faces a live broadcast that demands poise and teamwork. She is supported by a capable crew and a solid plan to engage all viewers, ensuring the festival remains accessible and entertaining for diverse audiences. Questions linger about whether her own song will be performed, but she emphasizes the need to watch all three premiere episodes to see how the format unfolds.
The energy before stepping onto the stage
Curiously, the six presenters sharing hosting duties for the premieres and companion programs открыли up about pre-show jitters. Inés Hernand lightheartedly teased a joke about a famous presenter, admitting she was nervous but not overwhelmed by the moment. Ana Prada shared practical prep items, including comfortable shoes for long stair climbs and a need to have visuals for the voting segments clearly visible. Calderó requested larger display numbers for easier viewing, while joking that a quick teeth-brushing routine has long been part of his routine before stepping out. Lorenzo described a relaxed mood, not chasing rituals but simply staying focused on delivering the lines and staying confident. Jordi Cruz stressed the importance of switching off social media and fully enjoying the live event, while Aitor Albiza revealed a quirky superstition—ordering champagne and touching a lucky crystal before heading to the stage. Will these rituals bring good luck? The answer remains a cliffhanger until the performances begin, but the anticipation is palpable among the contenders.