Israel’s Eurovision representative Noam Bettan took to the stage in Vienna for his first rehearsal with the song “Michelle,” unveiling the centerpiece of his staging: a massive prop dubbed “the Diamond” by the Israeli delegation. He opens the performance from inside it alongside one of the dancers.
The Israeli delegation described Sunday’s rehearsal as “a major success,” also reporting enthusiastic reactions in the arena to Bettan’s vocal performance.
Bettan began the song from what the delegation called a “huge and spectacular stage prop” — the “Diamond” — said to be the largest prop in this year’s Eurovision production, housing both the singer and a dancer.
Incorporating internal mirrors, the Diamond creates a visual effect that multiplies the “Michelle” figures, echoing the music video’s imagery of dozens of dancers. The main part of the number takes place on the main stage, with the Diamond remaining in the background, continuing to enhance the visual impact.
Beyond the striking staging, Bettan demonstrated exceptional vocal ability already in the first rehearsal, drawing strong reactions from those present in the hall.
The Israeli delegation’s second rehearsal is scheduled for Wednesday.
Bettan was drawn to perform “Michelle” in the second half of the first semi-final, set to take place in Vienna next Tuesday (May 12). Production has announced that Israel will perform as song number 10. Qualifiers from the first semi-final will advance to the grand final on May 16.