Thousands head here for 'American Idol' tryouts
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Season 10 finalists perform Wednesday in West Valley City, Utah, during the opening concert of the "American Idol" nationwide tour. -
Contestant Rocky Paterra, left, of Upper St. Clair with host Ryan Seacrest. -
"American Idol" fans react to a film crew's boom-camera during a taping preceding auditions for the television program on July 2 at the Rose Garden in Portland, Ore.
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Don't sing anything by Adele. Don't belt out "At Last" or "I'm Going Down."
Got it? Now you're ready to audition for "American Idol."
Waves of would-be Carrie Underwoods and David Cooks will cover the banks of the three rivers this week when the Fox blockbuster reality show holds tryouts here for the first time.
By conservative estimate, at least 10,000 hopefuls -- likely many more -- will register at the stadium Wednesday and Thursday for their big chance to sing for producers on Friday.
For Upper St. Clair's Rocky Paterra, his fourth shot at "AI" tryouts in other cities taught him "You can't take it personally if you don't get picked."
Ready to sing? Here's what you need to know.
Although auditions can be submitted online at the "American Idol" website (details at americanidol.com), most of those who try out go the live route. There are seven audition cities this year; Pittsburgh is the fourth stop and the only East Coast venue.
Auditions will be conducted Friday, beginning at 8 a.m., but contestants must register beforehand at the site, Heinz Field. Singers can sign up this Wednesday and Thursday, where they will be issued a wristband that should not be removed and a seat ticket that they must have when they return for Friday's audition.
Each contestant may bring one friend, relative or guardian, and that person must also be at registration to receive a wristband and ticket. The earlier the registration, the sooner the audition. Although it is possible to wait until Friday morning to register, it is not recommended -- there is the possibility that time and space limitations will not allow for latecomers.
Rules for registration and the audition are also available at the "American Idol" website, where Pittsburgh information will be updated closer to the event. In general, contestants need to bring two forms of ID that show proof of age, one with a photo. Contestants also must be a permanent U.S. resident. Anyone under 18 must bring a parent or guardian.
"American Idol" contestants must be born between June 27, 1982, and June 26, 1996. They cannot have any sort of current music recording or acting contract, or deal with an agent or manager. Contestants and household members cannot be related to or working for various companies and sponsors associated with the show -- even Coca-Cola.
First Published July 10, 2011 12:00 am
