Ukrainian singer Leléka showcased her song “Ridnym” during the second semifinal of Eurovision 2026, performing as the twelfth act of the evening. Following her performance, she expressed gratitude to her audience on social media, stating, “You were all with me, I felt it! I love you.”
The performance featured Leléka alongside bandurist Yaroslav Dzhus, with a costume designed by Liliya Litkovska, supported by stylist Margarita Shekel’s team. The outfit drew inspiration from the works of Ukrainian poet Lesya Ukrainka, particularly her verses about liberation and the courage to fly free.
In addition to Leléka’s attire, Dzhus’s costume referenced the Cossack era, symbolizing musicians as guardians of cultural memory and community voice. The performance also included accessories designed by Kate Brilliant, inspired by water droplets, representing depth, movement, and self-discovery.
For this event, three Ukrainian artisans crafted a bandura in the Kharkiv style, blending elements of traditional and contemporary academic music. The performance was directed by Ilya Dutsyk, who led the creative team behind the act.
Eurovision 2026, marking its 70th anniversary, is being held at the Wiener Stadthalle in Austria, following last year’s victory by JJ with “Wasted Love.” A total of 25 countries will compete in the final, with several finalists already announced, including Greece, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Moldova, Israel, Serbia, Croatia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Austria.
Leléka's performance at Eurovision 2026 highlighted Ukrainian cultural themes through her song "Ridnym" and visually striking costumes. The event serves as a platform for showcasing national heritage amid a diverse international competition.