Kilbeggan's Larissa Tormey "overwhelmed" as Laika Party chosen for Eurovision

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Kilbeggan-based singer-songwriter Larissa Tormey has made it to Eurovision with her song 'Laika Party'.

The upbeat song, which was written by Larissa alongside a team of Norwegian songwriters, was selected to represent Ireland in the Eurovision during the Late Late Show Euro Song Special on Friday, February 7.

The song was performed by Norwegian performer Emmy, who received 10 points from the international jury and 12 points from each of the national jury and the Irish televote on the night.

Laika Party songwriter Larissa said: "I want to thank every one of you who voted. I am honestly overwhelmed, I didn't realise how many people would vote for me because I asked you to.

"I can't name everybody. I don't think I realised I had so many great friends. I felt very loved. Thank you so much for voting for Laika Party, the song that I co-wrote. We're going to Switzerland in May. With all of the support you sent our way, we will do even better!"

The Kilbeggan songwriter explained the story behind the song, calling it "very special".

"It's based on a real story about a little dog Laika who went to space before humans did. The song is a little dancey, positive number which helps us to commemorate her."

This year's Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Basel, Switzerland from May 13 to 17.