Eurovision finally meets its Madge
135-strong entourage, 30 tonnes of stage kit and secret rehearsals
MADONNA has won this year’s Eurovision throng contest by turning up with a 135-strong entourage. The pop diva, set to perform two songs in the interval during tomorrow’s final, also brought 30 tonnes of props for her elaborate stage set. But bizarrely, officials have not been allowed to watch her rehearsals – and say she had not even confirmed to sing as she has yet to sign a contract. However, last night executive supervisor Jon Ola Sand said he had “reached an agreement” with the star over the terms of her performance. Details of Madonna’s turn are secret and she had been rehearsing at an undisclosed site in Wembley. She is hoping to fuel ticket sales for her tour, kicking off in September. The star hit Tel Aviv, Israel, with a crew including 25 dancers, 40 backing singers, a director, choreographer and animators. Her kit has piled extra pressure on stagehands, with one source saying: “They have enough work as it is with the 41 acts and now she’s adding 30 tonnes of props too.” Madonna had apparently not signed a contract yet over safety concerns. Earlier, Mr Sand had said: “[We have] never confirmed Madonna as an act. If we do not have a contract, she cannot perform. “We would love to welcome her but we must have a framework for safety.”
Israeli Fuldi Schwartz, 66, died on Monday after being crushed by a falling lighting rig while he was unloading gear. Meanwhile, Madonna could spark controversy if she confirms she will sing 1989 hit Like a Prayer. An insider said: “A song about religious devotion in this part of the world could be quite incendiary.” UK coverage is on BBC1 from 8pm tomorrow. Our entry Michael Rice, 21, will sing Bigger Than Us.