American Idol is a cultural phenomenon.
The reality television show is known for launching major singing careers for Idol winners, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.
And, even reaching the top 10 can be life-changing.
Jennifer Hudson, for instance, finished seventh in 2004, but went on to win an Oscar for the movie musical, “Dream Girls,” and remains a superstar.
So, future singing sensations of Tampa Bay — get ready to catch lightning in a bottle.
After 15 years on the Fox network, and a one-year hiatus, American Idol is returning to television on ABC in 2018.
Ryan Seacrest will return as host. Katy Perry is confirmed as one of the Idol judges.
Locally, open auditions for American Idol are scheduled for Aug. 12 at Florida Hospital Center Ice, 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. ABC Action News and Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend will host the event.
Winners of the “Tampa Bay Idol” contest will receive a “Front of the Line” ticket that guarantees them a chance to be seen and heard by American Idol producers, during a bus tour stop in Orlando on Aug. 17.
“We’re excited about local talent being able to showcase right here at Florida Hospital Center Ice in Wesley Chapel,” said Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore. “We may have the next superstar come from Pasco County…the next Carrie Underwood. That’d be awesome.”
Moore, Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey and Gordie Zimmermann, managing partner at Florida Hospital Center Ice, made the announcement at a press conference on July 24.
ABC officials predict as many as 1,000 people could line up for a chance at stardom. Only the first 400 who register online at ABCActionnews.com/Idol will be guaranteed an audition. If there’s time, more auditions may be allowed.
Everyone is urged to preregister for a smoother, faster processing time on the day of the open auditions.
Online registration is set to begin on Aug. 5.
A local panel of celebrity judges will be announced at a later date.
Starting time was estimated to be mid-morning, but had not been determined prior to The Laker/Lutz News’ deadline for publication.
The event offers an opportunity to showcase Florida Hospital Center Ice, which opened the 150,500 square-foot ice rink and sports complex in January.
Auditions will take place in at least two rooms at the facility.
“We’re excited to host,” said Gordie Zimmermann, managing partner with Florida Hospital Center Ice. “We’re really looking forward to the date.”
Zimmermann said there also would be areas for overflow seating, while people wait their turn to sing, and a snack bar.
Pasco’s selection as a site for open auditions came together quickly.
Starkey got a heads-up phone call from ABC Action News officials a few days before the press conference. After a tour of Florida Hospital Center Ice, the matter was settled.
“It’s been a very fun project to work on,” said Starkey. “Tampa Bay Idol is a great way to showcase the talents some of our residents have.”
Starkey said she notified Tampa Premium Outlets and The Shops at Wiregrass, which is an event sponsor, about the coming auditions, urging them “to staff up and get ready.”
Published August 2, 2017
