29-year old Kaleen will represent Austria in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest. Austrian broadcaster ORF announced that news this morning. The song and its title will be announced later.
Extremely proud
Kaleen herself commented on her election: ‘I think I haven’t fully grasped the fact yet, that I’ll be standing on that stage as an artist myself. I am in love with this world of lights and cameras and believe it’s a privilege to take the audience on a journey. I worked hard for this, and I am extremely proud. I am very looking forward to showing the world what I can do!’
Dancing career
Kaleen (real name Marie-Sophie Kreissl, born in 1994) is an Austrian dancer, choreographer, and singer. Her passion for performing arts blossomed at a tender age. As a toddler, she was captivated by music shows on TV, often dancing in her living room. Her formal journey in dance commenced with ballet lessons. She rapidly diversified into various genres including commercial, tap, jazz, musical, modern, Latin, and standard dances. Kaleen’s talent shone early. She won her first national championship at seven. Kaleen subsequently clinched over 100 national and European championships, along with five world championships.
Music
Kaleen is also skilled in music. She released her first self-produced single in September 2021 under Wifi Records, followed by her debut album “Stripping Feelings” in September 2023.
Eurovision
Kaleen’s influence extended to the Eurovision Song Contest starting in 2018, initially participating as a stand-in lead artist and choreographer. By 2021, she escalated to the role of creative director for the Junior Eurovision Song Contest for Spain and Bulgaria. She took over as the stage director for the 2022 contest in Spain. Her expertise was further sought in 2023. She aided Austria, Armenia, Germany, and Georgia with their stage performances at the contest in Liverpool. And now she will be in Malmö in 2024.
