Cariboo Idol season seven is on its way with some changes to place more focus on singer-songwriter performers, says Robert Fry, who is organizing the contest.
Cariboo Radio hosts Cariboo Idol as a way to promote vocally talented people living in the Cariboo, and raise funds for artists to entertain audiences at events in the region through summer and fall.
Fry says the contest is steering away from karaoke singers this year unless the singing talent is too great to ignore.
In the case of talented karaoke singers, Fry says the goal of the contest will be to have one of the other musicians in the contest play for the singers, rather than play karaoke music.
Auditions will take place May 14 and 15 at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre in 100 Mile House from 6 to 9 p.m. both nights.
Call backs will be on May 16 and 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. both nights.
The $10 cash entry fee is paid on audition day.
Entrants younger than 18 years of age will require the signature of a parent or guardian before their first auditions, in the presence of a representative from South Cariboo Community Concerts or New Age Entertainment.
Fry says he could also hold auditions in Williams Lake if event sponsors come forward in this area.
While auditions may not be held in Williams Lake this year, Fry says the contest is open to the entire Cariboo-Chilcotin.
The 10 finalists will have the chance to be heard across the Cariboo and around the world on Caribooradio.com.
They will be interviewed on air, in local newspapers and will have the chance to record their song(s) at the New Age Studio.
“Cariboo Idol is about working together as a group and helping one another out to ensure solid performances when on stage, in the studio and in music videos that will be uploaded to YouTube, Twitter and Facebook,” Fry says.
“Most of all Cariboo Idol is about having fun doing what you love to do! So if you want to support your communities through song and team work, audition for Cariboo Idol 2012 and start making a difference in your community,” Fry says.
All 10 finalists will be winners, regardless of where they place at the end of the season.
“Cariboo Idol has been mentioned as not reaching past Williams Lake this year, but I will not turn away any Cariboo artists willing to take part and help support Cariboo fundraising and special events for the summer and fall in trade for worldwide exposure for themselves and their written material,” Fry says.
“I plan to open it right up to the entire Cariboo/Chilcotin and reaching down to Bella Coola in 2013, but again I won’t turn auditioners away.
For more information 778-482-5522 or fax 778-482-5523
info@caribooradio.com.