Go-Jo unveils Eurovision staging

Sweet Sweet, Yum Yum!

Move over the Big Banana, the Big Lobster, the Big Pineapple a 4 metre Big Blender has taken to the Eurovision stage with staging unveiled for Go-Jo’s performance in Basel, Switzerland.

First images have been released following a first rehearsal of Semi Final Two at St. Jakobshalle Arena.

He’s been keeping a big secret for many months, telling TV Tonight that spilling details “would be like opening presents before Christmas – it would ruin the magic.”

Taking cues from the Willy Wonka-meets-Rocky Horror aesthetic of the official ‘Milkshake Man’ music video (directed by Josh Harris), Go-Jo’s staging brings the wall-to-wall chaos from the milkshake van to the Eurovision stage. Working with staging directors and producers Marvin Dietmann (Voyager, 2023), and Dan Shipton and Ross Nicholson of Black Skull Creative, it promises a riot of retro flair and high-octane showmanship with bold neon hues, playful costumes, and a ripped, gyrating Marty Zambotto, aka Go-Jo.

It also throws in a little ‘infomercial’ feel. As the lights dim and the playful introduction of Greensleeves begins, the audience is invited to the world of a unique talent. An origin story of sorts, meet ‘The Milkshake Man’ – a magical salesman with an all-powerful elixir that can turn anyone into the best version of themselves. With the lyric, “The shake is not a drink – it’s a state of mind, it’s a secret superpower you were born to find,” Go-Jo encourages everyone to embrace their individuality, unapologetically and wholeheartedly.

Through ‘80s-inspired infomercial graphics, the audience is drawn into the allure of the Milkshake Man’s world – a limitless wonderland of endless possibility. Go-Jo himself is transformed, beginning the show in an outfit reminiscent of traditional milkmen, revealing a sparkly sequinned number underneath (a nod to the music video).

Joined on stage by Jenaya Okpalanze (Surely Shirley) and Jeannine Bruderer, we see how Go-Jo’s ‘Milkshake Man’ inspires self-expression and unlocks the power that already exists within you. Once you step into the giant blender, what comes out isn’t just you—it’s the unleashed, unshakable, fullest version of yourself.

The blender almost acts like a metaphor for the Eurovision experience; a once-a-year moment in time that invites people from all around the world into an inclusive space free from daily constraints to be themselves. For Go-Jo, it’s an experience that’s helped him elevate his art and step into his own.

Go-Jo said: “Stepping onto the stage for the first time was the most incredible experience of my career to date. The first official rehearsal was epic, and I can’t wait for a packed arena full of “Yum Yums” next week!

Staging Producer Marvin Dietmann said: “Always a pleasure teaming up with Australia – always fearless, always inventive. They get it, Eurovision isn’t won with lights and props alone, it’s won with a big character at the centre. That’s the winning formula, and with Go-Jo, they’ve absolutely nailed it. He’s magnetic, cheeky, and totally in command. The giant blender prop brings the fun, but it’s Go-Jo’s energy that shakes the whole thing to life. When the artist connects, the staging soars and this one’s built to do that.”

Australian Head of Delegation and SBS Head of Entertainment Emily Griggs said: “From the moment we saw Go-Jo on stage, we knew he was made for Eurovision. He’s been a joy to work with; enthusiastic, hands-on, and creative. The giant blender isn’t just big and playful, it’s symbolic. Like Eurovision, it’s a celebration of transformation, where artists and audiences alike step into a space that encourages freedom, expression, and becoming the boldest, most confident version of yourself.”

Australia’s Creative Director for Basel, Paul Clarke said: “Who’s seen a 4-metre milkshake maker before? Only at Eurovision. It feels like ‘The Milkshake Man’ staging is a generational shift after 10 years, going to a place that is exciting and fun. We hope everyone enjoys it!”

Live early morning broadcast on SBS and SBS On Demand
Semi Final 1 – Wednesday 14 May at 5:00am AEST
Semi Final 2 – Friday 16 May at 5:00am AEST *Features Australia
Grand Final – Sunday 18 May at 5:00am AEST

Prime time ‘Access All Areas’ event coverage on SBS and SBS On Demand
Semi Final 1 – Friday 16 May at 7:30pm
Semi Final 2 – Saturday 17 May at 7:30pm *Features Australia
Grand Final – Sunday 18 May at 7:30pm

sbs.com.au/Eurovision