The Shalva Band gave up the dream of competing in Eurovision – but instead will perform at the Torchlighting Ceremony for Israel’s 71st celebration this May.
According to a report published by Yediot Ahronot, The Shalva Band has been invited to open this year’s Independence Day celebrations.
The band will also appear in the second semi-finals of the Eurovision Song Contest – in the artistic part of the contest – broadcast live in Tel Aviv on May 16 via Israel’s Kan public broadcasting network.
Israeli Minister of Culture Miri Regev said in response to the news, “I am happy that the Shalva Band, which has captured the heart of the Israeli public, will appear at the Torch Lighting Ceremony marking the 71st anniversary of our independence.
“The members of the band represent in the best of all possible ways the victory of spirit over the body – the issue which we have chosen to highlight in this year’s independence day’s celebrations.
“The Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Information will continue to apply these principles so that all sectors of the country’s population can take part in cultural events, including those with disabilities.”