Russia Doesn't Take Well to Conchita Wurst, Reforms Intervision to Counter Eurovision

Austria's Conchita Wurst made headlines when she won the Eurovision competition earlier in May, not only because of her vocal ability but also because of her beard. Wurst is the stage name of cross-dresser Thomas Neuwirth, a fact that Russia doesn't take kindly to. The nation has planned a series of counter-Eurovision vocal competitions within its own borders to demonstrate opposition to the "proof of Europe's moral degrading" (words from Vitaly Milonov, a deputy in St. Petersburg's legislative assembly).

The ministry of defense is hosting a youth competition currently and Russia will host the Intervision competition in Sochi this autumn (maybe the Olympic construction will be done by then?). It doesn't take a linguist to notice that "Intervision" suggests a more inward view than pan-European Eurovision, and it's doubtful many non-former Soviet bloc states will partake. Russia wasn't popular among non-bloc voters at Eurovision, due not only to its staunch stance regarding alternative lifestyles but also its recent invasion of Crimea. Boos rained down from the audience when the nation received votes. Indeed, the Russian qualification round for Intervision will take place in Crimea at a Yalta resort.

The winner of Eurovision typically tours the continent following their victory but Russia has implied Wurst won't be welcome (because she's likely to visit after all this nonsense). Milonov stated that Wurst's entry into the country would be banned under Russia's law against "gay propaganda," which he helped write. The good news is that Russia's culture ministry has denied its ability to prevent performers from entering the country based on facial hair.

Come to New York Conchita; we'll treat you alright.