Israel's Eurovision Song Contest representative Noam Bettan is preparing for one of the world's biggest stages with an unusual rehearsal strategy: he's hired a team whose job is to boo him. The 28-year-old singer will represent Israel at Eurovision 2026 in Vienna with his song "Michelle," performing May 12-16 under heightened security amid regional tensions. In an interview with German newspaper BILD, Bettan revealed his unconventional preparation method designed to steel him against expected hostility. "During rehearsals, I have a team that constantly tries to boo me and make things difficult for me – that actually helps me a lot," Bettan explained. "I'm really surrounded by a great team. They know me inside and out, they're here, supporting me and helping me. I just try to concentrate on the rehearsals and my performance on stage – and enjoy it." The strategy reflects lessons learned from Israel's 2025 contestant Yuval Raphael, who faced harsh booing and hostility during his Eurovision appearance. Bettan has been in Vienna since May 1st, avoiding public appearances and keeping a low profile while meticulously preparing. In Israel, as across contested regions, security concerns and aspirations for normalcy exist in constant tension. Bettan's preparations at home took place under extreme conditions, interrupted by air raid sirens and rocket fire. "When the alarm sounds, we all go into a shelter, a bunker," he said. "As soon as it's over, we come out and continue working." The singer is combining physical and mental preparation, doing endurance training while singing – "with jumps, squats, jumping jacks" – to perform under high pressure. Before going on stage, he follows a fixed ritual: reciting the Shema Yisrael prayer, working with "certain frequencies," and talking to himself to stay calm. "I have a lot of rehearsals and a lot to prepare for – mentally as well, to be relaxed and free during this process," Bettan said. He promises "many surprises you'll see on stage" and is training to "sing the song in my sleep." His family will attend, with his mother, father, and siblings traveling to Vienna. Friends are scrambling to secure tickets. Bettan draws strength from his faith: "This might sound cliché, but God is with me. I really feel it – it gives me support." Israel's Eurovision participation has become increasingly contentious in recent years. In 2024, Eden Golan performed under heavy security and faced protests over the Gaza conflict. The contest's organizers have repeatedly rejected calls to exclude Israel, citing the event's apolitical nature, though Israeli representatives face vocal opposition at venues. Despite the challenges, Bettan remains focused. "Ultimately, we are all human beings who carry on, keep working, and do what is necessary," he said. "Right now, I have one very important goal: to represent my country. For me, that is the most important thing at the moment, so I won't let anything stop me." He'll stand before hundreds of millions of viewers on what he calls "the biggest stage in the world," carrying a message about perseverance: "Believe in yourselves and realize your potential, because everything is possible. Processes take time, and it's important not to give up too quickly."

Israeli Eurovision Singer Rehearses Under Security, Prepares Team to Boo Him

Israeli Eurovision Singer Rehearses Under Security, Prepares Team to Boo Him