Be prepared to hear lots of entries throughout the contest that are just like this one as this year’s line-up is littered with “heartfelt” ballads. The Greek entry, fortunately, is one of the better ones. Cypriot Maria Elena Kyriakou, a recent winner of “The Voice of Greece”, has delivered a ballad that’s big on energy and vocals and one which begs to be accompanied by thrusting hand grasps, fancy lighting, a passionate pianist and one cranked up wind machine. Greece’s pedigree in the contest suggests that Maria should qualify to the final where we’ll be watching closely to see if the German and Greek voters and juries show each other a bit of love when it comes to doling out the votes. Who says Eurovision is not political?
Things to know about Maria Elena
Maria Elena is based in Greece but spends half her time in Cyprus taking care of her kids and running an after school private programme for students who need extra help with their studies.
One thing she does every time before performing, is visiting a church nearby and praying. She finds that it both helps her stay calm, but also encourages her and motivates her by strengthening her faith
"Being a part of the Eurovision Song Contest family was always a dream for me. I think it is exciting to have a contest in which there's always a little room for everyone, and it's a wonderful opportunity for people from different countries and cultures to meet, exchange ideas and bond."
