The best ballad in this year’s contest has an Aussie connection. One of 'A Million Voices' composers is Sydney ensemble Cassette Kids vocalist Katrina Noorbergen and will be performed in Vienna by the stunning Polina Gagarina. Although Russia’s sure to get a cool reception in the Wiener Stadthalle there’s no denying the power of this song. It’s big and it’s going to get lots of votes. Expect seasoned performer Polina to pull out some dramatic staging and deliver on all the Eurovision performance tropes. This is the only entry in Semi 1 with the ability to quash the momentum of Estonia.
Spoiler: Watch Russia's Grand Final performance below
Watch Russia's Semi Final 1 performance below
4 Questions with Polina Gagarina
What are three interesting aspects about your entry?
Polina’s second name Gagarina is one of the most known not only in Russia but in the world thanks to "the first man in space", Yuri Gagarin.
Russia will take part in Eurovision Song Contest for the 19th time.
An international team of authors worked on the song A Million Voices including Russians, Swedes and even an Australian who lives in Berlin.
What are three impressive facts about Polina?
She went to school in Greece where her mother worked and speaks fluent Greek.
Polina lost 30 kg after having a baby.
Polina studied acting – she graduated from MKhAT Theatre School.
Do you have a (lucky) routine before going on stage?
Polina has special concert perfume. She always wears it going on stage.
Why is the Eurovision Song Contest important for you?
"This is a level-up for me. And I’m happy to represent my country at such a high-ranking international contest."
