Teapacks threaten: We will boycott Eurovision
Band members claim the Finns try to soften their song's message. 'The Eurovision could have vetoed us and they decided against it. If they plan altering the message of our song, we will boycott the contest'
Teapacks told Ynet that: "We feel disappointed; it seems that we are not given the freedom to choose how to present our song in a respectable manner. We are being sabotaged."
The turbulent press conference angered the organizers and the entire production team but lead singer, Kobi Oz, insists: "We really want to appear and we hope a solution will be found."
Teapacks on stage in Helsinki
Oz claims that ever since landing in Helsinki, comments were made about the song's scathing lyrics. "I understand their desire to soften the tone but we will not allow them to re-edit the video art we prepared.
The decision to shoot us with a single camera and in one shot is also questionable. If they decided to allow us to perform they must give the audience the right to express their opinion."
A meeting between the head of the Israeli team, Yoav Giani, Teapacks and the Eurovision's management was held Saturday afternoon in an attempt to reach a compromise. "It was a positive, productive meeting. I believe the Finns are genuinely trying to bridge the gap," Giani said.
Yet band members were not that optimistic: "We hope to work things out. We expressed our concerns to the director and producer and we will see if things will be different at Wednesday's rehearsal."
Sources close to the show's producers said it is true that Saturday's rehearsal was far from perfect but attempts were being made to correct the situation.
"They have no intention to sabotage Teapack's performance; they want the Eurovision to be a success."
