As any ESC fan knows, there are mediocre songs which suddenly shine on stage, just as there are favourites that don’t get a favourable treatment. So let’s find out how things are looking on stage in Kyiv!

See the bottom of this post to find out how the total scores are calculated, as well as other detailed explanations.

10. Greece
Demy – This Is Love

Total score for Greece: 12.5 (out of 40)

With better vocals and performance, this would actually be a very strong entry after all. At least, if it doesn’t qualify it won’t be the fault of the staging.

11. Poland
Kasia Moś – Flashlight

Total score for Poland: 29.5 (out of 40)

Actually an unpleasant song, but sold extremely well. Totally benefiting from the staging.

12. Moldova
Sunstroke Project – Hey Mamma

Total verdict for Moldova: 24.5 (out of 40)

Heck, this has a weak song, a weak concept, but it’s hilariously well executed!

Winning these three: Poland

Ugly duckling -> beautiful swan. This is Poland 2017, turning a bulky, inaccessible song into a captivating entry on stage.

Explanations

What the categories mean

Concept: Meaning the idea behind what the performers are actually doing on stage, ignoring how well their performance is executed.

Look: Hairdo, clothes, but also attractiveness or likability play a role here.

Stage: Use of backdrop, lights and colours.

Camera: The camerawork, judging by the official snippets.

Performance: How well the concept is executed. Movements, facial expressions, finding cameras.

Vocals: Well, how well can the entrant actually sing?

What the stars mean

1 star – Counterproductive, doesn’t do the song any favours
2 stars – Mediocre, doesn’t help nor ruin the song
3 stars – Decent, supports the song well enough.
4 stars – Literally outstanding, unique in the context of this year

How the total score is calculated

1 star = 0 points
2 stars = 1 point
3 stars = 2 points
4 stars = 4 points

For the total score, “Vocals” is weighted x5, “Performance” x3, the other four categories x0.5.