Swapping Love Island for Eurovision: Antigoni’s pride at representing Cyprus
Swapping Love Island for Eurovision: Antigoni’s pride at representing Cyprus
Swapping Love Island for Eurovision – As Eurovision continues to draw more familiar faces to its stage, viewers might be surprised to see a familiar name among the performers in the upcoming semi-final. Antigoni Buxton, who appeared on series eight of the reality show in 2022, is set to represent Cyprus with her high-energy track *Jalla*. While fans of the UK’s *Love Island* may be taken aback by the sight of her on the Eurovision stage, Antigoni assures BBC Newsbeat that the transition is natural.
The journey from reality TV to Eurovision
For Antigoni, the leap from television to international music competition is both exciting and meaningful. “If anything, doing *Love Island* was random,” she explains. “I’ve always dreamed of being a singer, and that passion has been with me since I was a child.” The reality show, she adds, was a pivotal moment that allowed her to gain visibility. “It gave me the platform to introduce myself to a wider audience, and now I’m finally on the path I’ve always wanted to take.”
Despite the unexpected shift, Antigoni’s connection to Eurovision runs deeper than a single appearance. She recalls her early fascination with the contest, sparked by Helena Paparizou’s 2005 victory for Greece. “I’ve been obsessed with Eurovision since that day,” she says. “It’s a celebration of culture, and I felt it was the perfect opportunity to share my heritage through music.”
Roots and traditions in her art
Antigoni, born in London, carries a unique blend of Greek-Cypriot heritage. “I grew up in London, but every summer I returned to Cyprus, where I felt a strong sense of identity,” she shares. Her Eurovision entry, *Jalla*, reflects this duality. The track incorporates traditional Greek instruments and nods to the popular belly dance *Tsifteteli*, blending cultural elements with modern pop.
“*Jalla* is a word used specifically in Cyprus,” she elaborates. “It means ‘more’ or ‘again’ in Greek-Cypriot slang, and I think it captures the spirit of our music and our people.” The title, she says, is more than a label—it’s a symbol of her roots. “It’s a word that’s deeply tied to my family and my history, and I’m thrilled to share it with the world.”
The music video for *Jalla* features not only her family but also notable cameos. Among them is Stavros Flatley, known to audiences as the father-son dance duo from the ITV talent show *Britain’s Got Talent* in 2009. “In the UK, if you had to name a Cypriot achievement, it’s probably Stavros Flatley,” Antigoni laughs. She reached out to him, asking if he’d be willing to appear in her video. “He embraced the opportunity with such enthusiasm, and it was a joy to collaborate with him.”
A celebration of culture and community
Antigoni’s experience on *Love Island* has shaped her approach to Eurovision. “I’ve always been comfortable in the public eye,” she says, “but Eurovision feels different. It’s not just about performance—it’s about connection.” She describes the contest as a “loving community” where the focus is on support rather than criticism. “People still have opinions, but the vibe is warm and welcoming. It’s a chance to learn, to have fun, and to celebrate something bigger than ourselves.”
For Antigoni, the true success of Eurovision lies in its ability to unite people through music. “The main goal is to do my best and make the most of this moment,” she states. “If I leave Vienna feeling proud, and if Cyprus is proud of me, then that’s a win in itself.” She also sees the contest as a chance to make history for her home country. “Representing Cyprus is a huge responsibility, but it’s also an honor. Making it to the final would mean so much to the people there.”
Cyprus’s Eurovision legacy
Cyprus, the third-largest Mediterranean island, has a rich Eurovision history. This year marks its 42nd participation in the contest, a record for any nation without a win. While the country hasn’t claimed victory in decades, Antigoni notes that they’re “almost bringing out the big guns” this time. “There’s a lot of energy and hope behind this entry,” she says. “It’s not just about the song—it’s about the story we’re telling.”
Her performance in Vienna is expected to be a standout moment. The stage production of *Jalla* brings her lyrics about dancing on tables to life, with dancers emerging from beneath the stage in a visually striking sequence. As the song builds to its climax, it’s likely to be accompanied by Cyprus’s full arsenal of pyrotechnics, creating an immersive experience for the audience. “It’s a powerful moment,” she says. “It’s not just about the music—it’s about the culture and the people behind it.”
Looking back, Antigoni reflects on how far she’s come. From the bright lights of *Love Island* to the grandeur of Eurovision, she sees the journey as a natural progression. “This is a dream I’ve worked toward for years, and it’s incredible to be here.” She also expresses gratitude for the support she’s received from her team and fans. “The love and encouragement I’ve gotten is overwhelming, and I’m so thankful to be part of this.”
As the competition approaches, Antigoni remains focused on the process rather than the outcome. “If I can leave Vienna feeling like I’ve given my all, that’s all I need,” she says. “Cyprus will be proud, and that’s what matters most.” For a country with a deep connection to its cultural roots, her participation is not just a personal milestone—it’s a shared moment of pride and hope. With *Jalla* as her anthem, Antigoni is ready to shine on the Eurovision stage, representing the spirit of her homeland in a new and vibrant way.
Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays—or catch up here.