The first semi-final of Eurovision 2025 concluded late Tuesday night, May 13, in Basel, Switzerland, delivering a spectacle of powerful vocals, diverse musical styles, and imaginative stage productions.

Hosting the evening were two well-known figures in European entertainment: award-winning comedian and presenter Hazel Brugger, known for her sharp humor and stage charisma, and Sandra Studer, a beloved host, actress, and singer with years of Eurovision experience. Together, they brought a balanced tone to the show—mixing formality with the relaxed, vibrant energy that defines Eurovision.

This year’s contest continues under the shadow of the ongoing war in Gaza. Organizers once again attempted—largely unsuccessfully—to maintain the façade of an apolitical event. Tensions peaked on Sunday, May 11, during the official Turquoise Carpet event when Israel’s representative, Yuval Raphael, was met with boos and verbal protest from demonstrators opposing the country's participation in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Despite the charged political climate, the semi-final night proceeded without disruption, focusing—at least for a few hours—on music and artistic expression. Notable entries came from Albania, Sweden, host country Switzerland, and the Netherlands, each delivering performances that reflected their national musical identities and artistic visions. The diversity in staging and sound reaffirmed Eurovision's reputation as a celebration of cultural variety.

A standout moment of the evening was Cyprus’s performance, which closed the semi-final. Representing the island, Theo Evan took to the stage with the dance-pop track “Shh”, delivering an energetic and tightly choreographed performance.

The staging drew inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, featuring theatrical, geometric design with steel scaffolding, stark white lighting, and dancers clad in black alongside Theo. 

Despite the strong delivery, Cyprus did not secure a spot in Saturday’s Grand Final.

Fifteen countries competed in the first semi-final for a place in the final on Saturday, May 17. As members of the "Big Five," Italy and Spain, along with host country Switzerland, were automatically qualified but also presented their entries during the broadcast. Viewers in those countries could vote in the semi-final.

The evening concluded with the announcement of the 10 countries (Norway, Albania, Sweden, Iceland, the Netherlands, Poland, San Marino, Estonia, Portugal, and Ukraine) that advanced to the Grand Final. Unfortunately, Cyprus was not among them.