CARNIVAL 2007

A SONG FOR EUROPE

Europe, unified in song
Our continent is full of small independent states, linked together historically and culturally, as well as through political and economic integration. Dozens of languages are spoken in Europe, all European nations, both big and small, are very proud of their special national identities. The Eurosong Contest gives all member states of the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) a chance to showcase their achievements in pop music, for European artists the contest is a unique opportunity to get 15 minutes of international fame and mingle with artists from different countries.

The European Dream
The Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) took place for the first time in 1956, with seven participating countries. Since then, the rules have been changed many times, the world has changed, and today Eurosong is the biggest televised popular music competition in the world. Hundreds of artists and songs compete every year for the chance to represent their country in the ESC, the show is watched by tens of millions of people... And in May, 2007 Helsinki will host the grand final!

The stars on the small screen
The Eurosong contest is one of TV's longest-running shows, and an important part of European broadcasting history. And it is also a marvelous archive of pop culture history for the past 50 years. No trend or novelty has escaped the Eurosong stage, it is all there: the dance moves, the haircuts, the fashion, the popular singers and groups of their day. Today all this is golden nostalgia, the songs are the soundtrack of everyones memories. Eurosong has its alternative fans, too: Gay culture and other lovers of "Eurotrash" embrace its campy excess.

Blue, white and European!
Finnish people love ESC. And Finns love to show the world what we can do - no matter if in sport, design or music. Unfortunately Finnish artists have never placed well in the contest, in spite of 45 years of trying very hard. Until in 2006 Finland won by a landslide of votes! Finally Finland could proudly wave the flag and celebrate. Nothing feels impossible after such a victory...

We love Eurosong!
Papagaio wishes all Eurosong fans welcome to take part in a great Carnival of song, dance and music! Today, samba takes center stage and becomes "True Fantasy"!