The winner, Tom Neuwirth from Austria, who's alter ego is Conchita Wurst (innuendo intended, I'm sure), was resplendent in a gold-lace dress, and he sported a well-groomed beard that was worthy of a prize in itself: the fact that, as Conchita, he was described as a she is weird, but that's how to be noticed. Did he/she win because the song was the best on the night, or because he attracted a rebellious vote? Probably the latter, but who knows? The song was ok and I'll admit that he had a good voice - for a woman.
Talking of rebellion, the voting procedure gave the opportunity for disgruntled people to show their displeasure at Russia's action in Ukraine, and their recent homophobic stance. Voting for Conchita was certainly a slap in their face. There was also unrest as the Russian sisters sang, and boos could be heard from the audience as a Russian presenter announced their votes.
At the other extreme, we had a sexually-suggestive routine from Poland that took churning butter to a new level - a bit of curd and weh-hey! Hardly appropriate.
Eurovision certainly offers variety, but I'd question whether it's ever really been a true song contest. It has a reputation for dubious marking, favouring strategically-placed European neighbours, and is now moving towards being a freak show where the aim is to be noticed. Rarely can it be agreed that the best song has won.
The format has changed over the years and the voting procedure is no longer as laborious as it was. But what has really improved has been the set design and lighting. Performances have been enhanced by magnificent effects and there should be a prize for that alone. We could then forget the songs and the singers and just vote on the spectacular lighting!
Austria has never won this competition before, and it's taken a bearded drag artist to achieve the accolade. The country will be hosting the event next year and thoughts will already be turning to ways of surpassing this year's performances. Seeing what's necessary to win, anything goes from now on!