Overview

• The state-run final is scheduled for Sept. 20 at Live Arena near Moscow, with Shaman representing Russia and Igor Matvienko serving on the jury.
• Organizers say at least 22 countries will participate, including Belarus, China, India, Serbia, Venezuela and others.
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov framed the event as strengthening cultural ties at a Sept. 16 briefing, with Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko heading the organizing committee and Sergey Kiriyenko overseeing the process.
• U.S. artist Brandon Howard withdrew at the last minute citing family reasons after being promoted as a prospective participant.
• Saint Petersburg will host a free public fan zone on Yelagin Island to screen the broadcast, with performances and a 21:00 start time.