Overview

• The live gala begins Saturday evening at the Live Arena in Nowoiwanowskoje outside Moscow.
• Acts from 23 states are slated to perform, with organizers touting a potential global audience in the billions.
• President Vladimir Putin ordered the contest’s revival by decree, with presidential aide Sergei Kirijenko leading the organization.
• Russia is represented by pop star Shaman, known for pro‑Kremlin songs linked to the wartime narrative.
• Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said queer performances will not be allowed, reflecting the show’s emphasis on traditional values.