Israeli Eurovision contestant Yuval Raphael took the stage Friday in Basel for her second rehearsal ahead of next week’s semi-final, as the Israeli delegation expressed satisfaction with the performance and production adjustments made since her first run-through.
“Yuval successfully completed her second and final rehearsal for the semi-final,” public broadcaster Kan said in a statement. “The production team implemented our requested changes, mostly concerning camera angles, and the team is pleased with the outcome.”
Yuval Raphael's second rehearsal ahead of the Eurovision semi-final
(Video: Courtesy of EBU )
During her final take, pyrotechnics were introduced at the climax of her number New Day Will Rise, a visual element added in response to feedback from Israel.
“We feel ready for the dress rehearsal and are touched by the warmth and support from back home,” said Yoav Tzafir, director of the Israeli delegation. He added that, as in previous years, the team gathered before taking the stage to sing Ofra Haza’s iconic Eurovision anthem Chai.
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Yuval Raphael completes second rehearsal ahead of Eurovision semi-final
(Photo: Alma Bengtsson \ EBU)
Raphael is set to continue rehearsals ahead of her performance in the second semi-final next Thursday, which will be broadcast live by Kan. Her first rehearsal earlier this week drew praise from members of the delegation, with one telling Ynet, “Yuval was superb and moving — everyone here was impressed.”
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The performance features Raphael standing alone atop a large chandelier, with no backup dancers — a minimalist staging revealed in official images released after the first rehearsal.
This year’s Eurovision contest is again taking place under the shadow of war, prompting renewed calls to ban Israel from the competition. Ireland became the latest country this week to urge the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to review Israel’s participation.
Citing security concerns, the National Security Council issued a travel advisory ahead of the contest, warning participants and travelers to conceal visible Israeli and Jewish identifiers and to prepare for potential anti-Israel protests.