Eurovision 2024 semi-finals live: Greece, Israel and Belgium among 16 countries to perform

Apologies if you were hoping for a full running commentary tonight. We’re saving that treat for the final on Saturday,

But here’s a guide to the upcoming highlights – and when it’s safe to pop to the (Water)loo.

1) Switzerland’s incredible high note

Proving that opera training goes a long way, Swiss singer Nemo shows off an astonishing falsetto on their song, The Code. The track details their experience of coming to terms with their non-binary identity, a struggle that’s dramatically brought to life with some simple-but-effective choreography.

2) France goes a cappella

Slimane is a huge star in France, notching up more than 2 million album sales since he won The Voice eight years ago. He puts that experience to use tonight, singing the climactic chorus of his «chant de la torche», Mon Amour.

3) Partying with Armenia (pictured above)

All too often, Eurovision songs are pulled from a box marked “portentous melodrama”. Armenia is having none of that, with an infectiously upbeat folk track called Jako. It’s performed by Ladaniva (pictured) who recently sold out Paris’s Bataclan concert hall, and light up the stage with festive energy.

4) An anthem to boredom

The title of Italy’s song, La Noia, translates as “boredom” but it’s anything but dull. Fusing traditional melodies with the Latin sounds of cumbia and reggaeton it finds singer Angelina Mango dreaming of escape from the drudgery (and sexism) of her daily life.

5) Europapa, Europapa

Saving the best ’til last, Joost Klein from the Netherlands delivers a kooky techno anthem about traveling around Europe (“fortunately you don’t need a visa“) and reveling in its cities (except Paris, which is too expensive). The song has a darker story behind it, however, as Joost’s journeys were inspired by his parents, who died tragically young.

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There’s plenty more to enjoy along the way. And if you’re desperate for a cup of tea / coffee / Glögg, the music pauses after act nine (Armenia) for a commercial break.