Vietnam Wins the Revived Intervision Contest
On a vibrant Saturday night, the spotlight shone on Vietnam as it triumphed at the relaunched Intervision contest, a musical competition that seeks to promote “traditional values” amidst a cultural rivalry against the Eurovision. The event, which gathered a diverse group of around twenty nations near Moscow, was organized under the directive of Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a significant return to a contest originally birthed during the Soviet era.
Emotion and Performance
The Vietnamese representative, Duc Phuc, captivated the audience with a heartfelt performance inspired by a poem about Vietnamese bamboo. Known for winning The Voice in Vietnam a decade ago, Duc Phuc expressed his gratitude to spectators for dedicating their time to the event, which spanned approximately four hours. His emotional delivery resonated deeply, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry that the Intervision aims to highlight.
A Diverse and Traditional Showcase
Vladimir Putin commended the essence of the Intervision, emphasizing its intent to respect traditional values and cultural diversity. Performers from various countries donned national costumes or modest attire, singing in their native languages. The opening ceremony featured a grand display of augmented reality, showcasing each nation through dancing silhouettes dressed in traditional clothing.
Participation Challenges
Initially, 23 countries were expected to participate, but the lineup faced challenges. Notably, Australian singer Vassy, who was to represent the United States, withdrew citing unprecedented political pressure from the Australian government. Such incidents raised questions about the freedom of artistic expression within the competitive landscape.
Celebrity and Cultural References
The jury that determined the winner included Joe Lynn Turner, an iconic figure from the rock band Deep Purple, demonstrating the event’s eclectic approach to music and culture. The stage witnessed various performances, including a joyful rumba by Cuban artist Zulema Iglesias Salazar, and a stirring song titled “Three Roses” by Serbian artist Slobodan Trkulja, dedicated to his daughters.
Future of Intervision
The next edition of the Intervision contest is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2026, reflecting the organizers’ ambition to broaden the event’s appeal. However, it’s worth noting that none of the EU nations participated, as Russia’s Intervision was pitched as a contrasting alternative to the Eurovision, which is seen by some as promoting Western “decadent” values.
A Global Audience
Organizers anticipate an impressive viewership for the show, with projections suggesting that the number of viewers could reach up to a billion. Given that the participating countries represent a combined population of over 4 billion, even a fraction of that audience would signify an unprecedented milestone. Konstantin Ernst, the director of Russia’s Pervy Kanal, underscored the potential reach of the contest, aiming to rival the 166 million viewers reported during Eurovision’s 69th edition this year.
A Historical Context
The Intervision contest, initially organized in 1965 in Czechoslovakia, served as a platform for the Soviet bloc’s musical talents. After a hiatus due to political changes in the late 20th century, its revival signifies nostalgia and a bid to reclaim cultural influence in a contemporary setting. Despite its divisive nature, the contest offers a glimpse into how music can reflect broader geopolitical narratives.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s victory at the Intervision not only highlights the nation’s artistic contributions but also invites a dialogue about cultural values in the face of political challenges. As the contest unfolds, it continues to function as a barometer of global cultural dynamics, revealing both collaboration and competition among nations.
