Rehearsal Studios

Lore & Background

Preparation for the 68th Eurovision Song Contest unfolded across specific locations in Malmö rather than a singular 'rehearsal studio' complex described in general fan lore. The Malmö Live event centre served as a critical hub, hosting the 'Turquoise Carpet' on 5 May 2024 where contestants and delegations were presented to accredited press and fans before the main events. This venue also hosted screenings of the live shows and housed the EuroClub, which facilitated official after-parties and private performances by contest participants. The production team at Sveriges Television (SVT), led by executive producer Ebba Adielsson and contest producer Christer Björkman, coordinated these activities with a total budget of SEK 277 million. The stage itself, designed by Florian Wieder featuring five movable LED cubes and a cross-shaped center, was constructed between 2 April and 25 April 2024 to create a unique 360-degree experience. Security measures were intensified significantly during this period, with police reinforcements from Denmark and Norway arriving as part of the largest police operation in Swedish history.

In Their Own Story

The narrative of the contest's preparation was defined by rigorous schedules and heightened security rather than hidden studio secrets. On 5 May 2024, the atmosphere at Malmö Live shifted as the 'Turquoise Carpet' event introduced the 37 participating countries to the world. Inside, the EuroClub provided a space for private performances where artists could connect away from the main stage lights. Meanwhile, technical crews worked tirelessly on the Malmö Arena stage, which had been rebuilt using technology designed by Florian Wieder and Fredrik Stormby. The pressure was palpable not just artistically but physically; Eden Golan, representing Israel, required escorting by Shin Bet agents alongside local police due to death threats received via social media. The production team adjusted side event locations for security reasons, moving planned street music from Friisgatan to the Eurovision Village in Folkets Park after several artists withdrew. Despite these tensions, the event proceeded with Petra Mede and Malin Åkerman presenting the two semi-finals on 7 and 9 May and the final on 11 May.

Reader's Guide

For those interested in the logistical flow of Eurovision 2024, the key locations were Malmö Arena for the live shows and Malmö Live for the 'Turquoise Carpet', screenings, and the EuroClub. The Eurovision Village was situated in Folkets Park, offering public access to performances by participants and local artists, while a 'Eurovision Street' ran from Triangeln station to this village on Friisgatan until security adjustments moved activities indoors. Access to the main production areas, including the stage construction site and the live show venues during rehearsals, was restricted to accredited personnel, delegations, and security forces. The contest featured 1,500 police officers and a dedicated no-fly zone to prevent drone attacks. Fans could view the 'Eurovision World' exhibition celebrating ABBA's 1974 victory at Södergatan between 29 April and 12 May 2024. The entire operation was managed by SVT with a team including Tobias Åberg as executive in charge of production, ensuring that every technical element from lighting to sound aligned with the 'United by Music' theme.

Did You Know?

• The contest featured a total of 1,500 police officers, marking the largest police operation in the history of Sweden.
• A no-fly zone was established over Malmö to prevent drone attacks during the event.
• Eden Golan from Israel was escorted by Shin Bet agents in addition to local police due to death threats received via social media.
• The stage design featured five movable LED cubes, floors, and a backdrop screen set around a cross-shaped center to create a 360-degree experience.
• Luxembourg returned to the contest for the first time since 1993, while Romania opted out due to financial reasons.