Austria’s Eurovision performance in Basel will display the use of elements that have never been used before in past editions of the competition. 

Pop-opera singer JJ is representing Austria at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest with the song Wasted Love. 

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• Austria’s Eurovision performance in Basel will feature innovative elements never seen before in the competition
• JJ has collaborated with acclaimed staging director Sergio Jaen, known for his groundbreaking work on Bambie Thug’s 2024 performance
• The performance will incorporate water and rain elements inspired by the music video, aiming to create an experience that offers an insight into JJ’s soul

JJ’s staging plans were submitted to this year’s host broadcaster, SRG SSR, at this week’s Heads of Delegation. 

Speaking to The Euro Trip, JJ said: “I’m a bit nervous [about the staging plans being submitted] because it’s going to be something that hasn’t really been done before camera-wise. 

“I’m really looking forward to it, and hoping it will go through because, if it does, it will be so cool. 

JJ’s staging is being creatively produced by the acclaimed Sergio Jaen. 

He was responsible for Bambie Thug’s groundbreaking performance in Malmö last year which helped the artist place sixth in the Grand Final. 

“I’m really grateful to be working with such a great producer and staging director.” 

The music video for Wasted Love follows a narrative, starting with JJ in a wet and rainy forest with a small paper boat, before he sails in the boat in rough seas until it later capsizes. 

“The water and rain elements, and the boat will be on my staging as well. It’s going to be very storytelling, the same as the music video. 

“It’s going to be very, very intimate. 

“I can’t say much, but everyone will get an insight into my soul. It will be very in-depth.” 

JJ’s performance will be seen for the first time when he performs in the second Semi-Final in Basel on May 15. 

Jaen is also working with Finnish broadcaster Yle on Erika Vikman’s Eurovision performance. He worked with Yle on its national selection show, UMK, in the run-up to the broadcast in february, and stayed on afterwards. 

Cyprus’ Theo Evan’s staging is also being conceptualised and managed by Jaen.