Editorial: Auditions offer chance for new talent

For some people, shows such as X Factor, The Voice, the Idol shows and the Got Talent shows are nothing but "another reality show"or somewhere singers get turned into "manufactured pop stars".

I couldn't disagree more.

They are great entertainment and provide singers and musicians with a platform to share their passion, voice and talents.

These reality talent-type shows are great for uncovering hidden gems.

Think Susan Boyle, One Direction, Leona Lewis, Kelly Clarkson, Stan Walker and Jennifer Hudson.

These singers are known all around the world and all have their shows to thank for many, if not all, of the opportunities they have had since. Hudson even has an Oscar.

Eventually we may have heard about these people without these types of shows, but they were all thrust into the spotlight after appearing on them, possibly making their journey towards fame and fortune faster.

X Factor has arrived in New Zealand and it is now looking for the next big singer. Rotorua singers with dreams of becoming New Zealand's next big music star have flocked to audition.

X Factor NZ is the first local version of the global television phenomenon, and TV3 producers are now in the middle of a 27-town audition tour. Yesterday Rotorua's X Factor hopefuls had a go to see if, in fact, they had the X Factor.

More than 160 people auditioned in front of the show's four executive producers at John Paul College, receiving either a "no" or a "maybe". The "maybes" will receive a phone call in the next week or two telling them whether they are through to the next stage - a trip to Auckland in late February to perform in front of a live studio audience and the show's four judges.

Daniel Bedingfield and Stan Walker have already been confirmed as judges but two more are to be added.

Wouldn't it be great for someone we know or someone from our city to get that opportunity?

Auditions were held in Tauranga on Saturday and today it heads to Taupo. Fingers crossed we see some singers from Rotorua and other parts of the Bay of Plenty gracing our television screens and showcasing their talents.