Eurovision season is properly ramping up now – and when Sweden’s Melfest returns for its 2021 cycle next week, you’ll know we’re reaaaaally getting down to business.

A couple of little changes have obviously been made to proceedings in light of These Unprecedented Times – including the fact that this year only six bodies will be allowed on stage per performance, down from the usual eight.

That’s maybe not the worst thing in the world, though, given that a new half-dozen cap brings the contest in line with actual Eurovision rules.

As reported in the Swedish paper Aftonbladet, via Wiwibloggs, dancers will also be made to keep 1.5 metres apart at all times.

Everyone on stage will wear a proximity alarm(!), that will beep and vibrate if anyone gets too close.

It’s been confirmed, too, that if artists have to withdraw from performing due to illness or an onset of new symptoms, their songs could still compete: rehearsal footage will be recorded, and could be used if needed; and stand-in performers could be used for said rehearsals if the actual artists are forced to isolate ahead of the actual live performance.

Melodifestivalen 2021 is the 61st edition of the competition, and the first semi-final is set for next Saturday, February 6. See the running order here.