Overview

• Twenty-three countries took part, including China, India and Brazil, in a show promoted around “traditional family values.”
• The winner was chosen by an international jury rather than a public vote, with a top prize of 30 million roubles (about $360,000).
• Organizers said U.S. representative Vassy did not perform after what they called political pressure from Australia, and earlier U.S. pick Brandon Howard withdrew citing family reasons.
• Russia’s entrant Shaman performed and then asked that the jury not consider Russia’s result.
• Organizers touted broad international broadcast reach without naming foreign carriers, and announced Saudi Arabia as next year’s host.