Ukraine chose “Stefania” by the KALUSH Orchestra after a tumultuous national final with one winner backing out over allegations of illegally traveling to Crimea. The KALUSH Orchestra includes the backing flute(?) player who performed with GO_A, Ukraine’s 2021 Eurovision entry.

With Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine, the country’s odds at winning Eurovision, the completely apolitical television event, shot way up. After receiving an exemption to leave Ukraine, the Kalush Orchestra is set to perform at Turin and “serve their country in other ways.”

Ukraine is performing in the first semi-final.

Ursula’s thoughts: There is just so much going on in this song and on the stage. Definitely maximalist and quintessential Eurovision. I would say it is definitely a banger that induces head-bobs.

Christa’s thoughts: I am a fan of the fancy recorder instrument. The pink hat was super jarring at first, but now I love it. Please check out the costumes featured in Ukraine’s performance in this sneak peak of their first rehearsal:

https://www.tiktok.com/@eurovision/video/7092435518742416645?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6917502770895799814

@eurovision

Exclusive BTS access with @KALUSH for Ukraine’s first rehearsal! 🇺🇦 #Eurovision2022 #EurovisionTikTok #Eurovision

♬ original sound – Eurovision