Rita Ora to be joined by Ukrainian dancer for her Eurovision performance

Rita Ora is set to perform a medley of some of her biggest hits as one of the interval acts at the Eurovision semi-finals.

Eurovision 2023 is set to take place in Liverpool on behalf of 2022 winners, Ukraine, following a decision from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) that the event could not be held in Ukraine for safety and security reasons as it normally would have been.

Alyosha, who came 10th in Eurovision 2010 with the song, "Sweet People", will perform alongside former The X Factor contestant Rebecca Ferguson. Mariya Yaremchuk, who came sixth at Eurovision 2014 with the track "Tick‐Tock", will lead a contemporary montage of some of the most well-known pieces of music from her country, before Ukrainian rapper Otoy and Zlata Dziunka – who came ninth when she competed in Junior Eurovision last year on behalf of Ukraine – perform alongside her.

This is Sofiia – A dancer and refugee from Rivne, in the north west of Kyiv. She has been living in Warrington since 2022.

To me, Sofiia represents strength and hope during these turbulent, tragic and changeable times. We must not forget the privilege the UK has to play its… pic.twitter.com/iNkbBbhYMz

— Rita Ora (@RitaOra) May 9, 2023

Taking to her socials, Rita Ora took a moment to put the spotlight on Sofiia – "a dancer and refugee from Rivne, in the north west of Kyiv" who will be opening her performance.

"The plight of Sofiia’s family reminds me of the incredible journey my family went through when I was her age, and how I will be forever grateful to the UK for showing us kindness and compassion," she said. "To me, Sofiia represents strength and hope during these turbulent, tragic and changeable times... I hope this amazing song contest opens hearts across Europe and the world. We love you Ukraine, we all perform tonight, for you."