Welcome to Pure America's Got Talent

Thanks to reader Mr. Lucky, here’s a list of the updates posted on the official AGT website:

The Chicago Audition states the following:
“We have started calling some acts with good news, but are still evaluating others. All decisions will be made by mid-April.”

The New York page says this:
“Some acts have already been called with good news, but auditions are still being evalulated. All decisions will be made by mid-April.”

Philidelphia says:
“We have begun making some “good new” calls, but many acts are still being evalulated. All decisions will be made by Mid-April.”

Los Angeles:
“Auditions are still being evalulated, but some good news calls have already gone out. However all decisions could take as late as mid-April 2010″

Also, the AGT producers stopped by the site and left the following answers to people’s AGT questions:

brigitte asked if you auditioned once this season, can you audition again this year? Yes — you can audition as much as you want whenever and where every you want. You can even send in a video if you auditioned in a city.

To answer multiple questions about the “call backs.”
As it says on AGTauditions.com, will will make all decisions on who makes it to the next round by mid-April 2010.  We only call and email acts that are moving on to the next round…sorry we cannot call everybody.

Some calls have already gone out. The reason why we say mid-April is just because, for example even if you auditioned in NYC, if NYC is fully booked, the produers may bring you to another city to see the judges. Please see our FAQ for answers to other questions.

One of my readers asked some interesting questions about what she should end up taking to the America’s Got Talent auditions. While I’ve heard of someone getting in and out in under an hour, the usual experience is that you’re likely to be there the better part of the day. Feel free to offer up suggestions in the comments:

Can anyone who has auditioned help me out? We are auditioning Jan 30. in downtown Dallas, TX. I imagine we’ll be in line for hours and hours. I’m planning on taking a folding chair, one lunchbox with some snacks, one lunchbox type cooler with diabetic supplies, and a small purse with keys, phone, ID and money, and CD w/ music. Is there anything here they won’t let us take? I know we can’t wear logos or teams, but how about an Autism Awareness Ribbon or Breast Cancer ribbon??? Thank you! ….anna

I got word about a really cool group that went to the America’s Got Talent auditions. Her name is Ilze Luneau and her Basketball Family. Ilze does some really neat stuff with basketballs. Check out this video to see what I mean:

Yes, she’s dribbling 6 basketballs at the same time. That’s pretty amazing. However, I think the spinning stuff is just as if not even more amazing. Go grab a basketball and try to spin it and you’ll see how much talent it takes. I think most people have tried and you know that it’s not easy to spin it for such a long time. However, she’s doing 3 basketballs. I will say that her outfit is an incredible mistake. It’s just wrong for such a pretty girl to wear whatever she’s wearing.

Here’s another video of Ilze Luneau:

It’s talent like this that makes America’s Got Talent really really interesting. I’m very happy to see that Ilze auditioned and I can’t wait to see her on America’s Got Talent.

I had an audition time of 8:00 am March 2. I arrived at Mccormick place around 5:45, ended up in line by about 6 am. There were already around 50 people in line. Some were auditioning, and others just family and friend. I met some people right away who were singing as I was. Seemed like more singers than anything.

After about 45 minutes of making sure everyone had papers and wristbands, they herded us to what seemed like a big ball room. We would stay here for a few hours. I didn’t mind I enjoyed watching all the performers practice. The dance off was interesting to watch also.

The time passed as we were asked to act for the camera. Sitting quietly pondering our fate. Unfortunately this one started while I was in the bathroom. Imagine my surprise as I walked in to at least 300-400 people sitting dead quiet. I guess it was a good thing I didn’t run in the room singing as loud as possible. Other poses consisted of everyone practicing, singers (singing), musicians (playing), etc.

Around 11 maybe a little later the first numbers were called. I was lucky to be called in the first numbers. I took a deep breath and walked to the line. I was placed in the line with the instruments (as I was playing the piano while I sang). It is importnt to note I was in line with about 6 other people and all had guitars, not a lot playing the piano I guess. Two people were called in the room before me with about 10 min in between auditions. They audition and said they were good to go.

I was called in, we auditioned alone in the room thank goodness, all though the ones outside said they could here me). I walked to the center stage and told them my name, age, song, and they asked a little bit about me. There was a man filming a woman working the computer and one gentleman (with a british accent) doing all the talking. I was asked to start when ready. So I sat at the awesome keyboard they had and sang “More Than Anyone”  by Gavin Degraw. After I finished they asked if I could sing another piece. So I said sure thinking in my mind (Oh Man) cause I had not prepared another piece. I sang “Belief” also by Gavin Degraw as he is my favorite singer.

After I finished the producer sked me to wait outside while they check something on my papers. When I was asked to come back in he said he wanted me to sing for the executive producers. So I was led to another hall where I waited. In this hall they verified my information and took my picture. I also met the Boyd Family Band really nice family I enjoyed talking to.

Finally I was led into the room with two producers and another guy filming. He asked me to tell my story so I did. Then he said begin when ready. I sat down t the keyboard and after a sound check sang “More Than Anyone”. He said thanks and asked the other producer if he needed anything. He said no I think it was good. I was then told they will be calling people back in a few weeks.

I arrived about 6 and left before 1. So over all my experience was really good. I should mention my sister auditioned on March 1 and they arrived at 7 and didn’t audition until about 8 or 9 at night. So I am really happy for my timing.

I was really happy how everything went. The first producer was very complimentary and singing in front of the exec producers was very encouraging. However it has been 2 weeks and I have heard nothing so who knows. Just wanted everyone to see what its like to audition.

As many comments have rolled in talking about not getting a call about the NY taping of America’s Got Talent, I’ve had a second to think about what people must be going through right now.

I think the biggest issue that most people have is just not really knowing. In a few months you’ll really know, because they’ll be moving to the Las Vegas auditions and I think that’s definitely the drop dead point.

Might I offer one comment to those who might be thinking about the audition experience. A man I really respect told me that “Life is about making stories and telling stories.” I couldn’t think of anything that could apply better to auditioning for America’s Got Talent. Not only did you make a story, but now you have a story to tell for the rest of your life.

America’s Got Talent really got things moving today as they started the taping of the show today in New York City. For many of those who attended the NY open auditions, they are probably wondering why they haven’t gotten a call. However, the show must go on and certainly a lot of great talent will be on the show and a lot of great talent will be left off the show. I believe this will be especially true for singers.

It’s not too late if you want to go and be in the audience for the taping of the show. They’ll be taping on March 18th and 19th. You can get tickets to be apart of the audience here.

Here’s the full description of the America’s Got Talent taping in NYC:

Nick Cannon hosts NBC’s hit reality competition! Be in the audience as the best amateur performers in New York City compete! David Hasselhoff, Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan judge! Produced by Simon Cowell!

The Hammerstein Ballroom
Manhattan Center Studios
311 West 34th Street
New York, NY 10001

I just wish I was closer to NYC and could go and be apart of the audience. Would be really interesting.

Congratulations to those that are attending the taping. My thoughts and best wishes to those who didn’t make it.

Well, I just got an email today giving details about the America’s Got Talent LA auditions. If you registered on the nbc.com/agt (like I suggested previously) then you should have gotten this email as well. It looks like they are requiring the email in order to audition or at least that they’ll be giving priority access to the auditions for those who registered their email on the site.

Below I’ll post a copy of the email I received for those that might be interested in the details of the audition process since it will probably be the same for America’s Got Talent 5 (Yes, I am assuming they get renewed for another season).

One Other Important Note: This website does not represent NBC, America’s Got Talent or anyone related to the show. This is purely a fan site with no legal connection to the show itself. Therefore, take the information as you may.

America's Got Talent Logo

Congratulations Stevie!!

We are writing you with details of your audition for America’s Got Talent! By pre-registering to audition, you have already taken your first steps to becoming our million-dollar winner, and America’s next greatest star! Please read this entire document for crucial information about your audition.

We have you confirmed to audition in:

Audition City: Los Angeles
Location Los Angeles Convention Center (Do Not Contact the Venue)
Concourse Meeting Rooms
1201 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Date: January 29, 2009
Time: 8 am
Please make sure you bring this email with you!

• Please note your session group time above. This is the time you must show up for your audition. There will be many other contestants in each ‘session group’ and people will be seen on a ‘first come first serve’ basis.
• Please go to the “paperwork” section of AGTauditions.com and download the ”Audition Information and Personal Release form.” Read it, sign it and bring the paperwork with you. Each member of a group must have their own set of completed forms.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

US Citizens & Permanent Residents Only: Contestants must be able to prove BEFORE they can audition that they are either a US citizen, legal permanent resident of the US, or possess a current legal visa allowing you to seek employment freely in the US (not merely a visa that allows you to work for one particular employer). Bring your proving documentation with you.

Photo ID: All contestants will be required to present a photo ID. Minor contestants may use a school ID or acceptable substitute (such as a yearbook page that includes a printed name with a photo AND a birth certificate). If the contestant is too young to have a photo ID, then the parent or guardian should present a photo ID & the child’s birth certificate that includes the parents name with the child’s name on the certificate.

Under 18: Contestants under 18 must have permission from their parents or legal guardian to audition AND must be accompanied by one of their parents or their legal guardian. If the parents or legal guardian is unable to attend, and is allowing the minor to attend the audition under the supervision of a third-party (such as a coach), you must do two things:

1) Download and complete the Guardianship and Medical Authorization for Minors form from the “paperwork” section of AGTauditions.com and get it NOTARIZED by a notary public (typically at banks or mailing stores, or search your local directory) and bring it with you on the day of your audition.

2) The parent or guardian must designate the third-party specifically on the Personal Release, with a special signature by the parents or legal guardian and the third-party (see page 4 of the Personal Release).

All the paperwork can be found in the “paperwork” section of our web site AGTauditions.com

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT AUDITION:
• There will be roving cameras interviewing contestants, their families and supporters inside and outside the audition venues, so dress to impress for your NBC primetime debut. If possible, you should arrive in the outfit or costume you plan to wear for your audition. Do not wear clothing with logos, including sports teams, designer names, or company logos. Contestants, friends, and family members wearing logos will be asked to cover or remove the articles of clothing. In addition, please do not wear clothing with thin stripes or anything predominately white unless it is a costume piece, due to issues with how they look on camera.
• As part of the show we will shoot several group shots with everyone including a welcome to each city, so be prepared to spend some time outside. We suggest you wear layers should the weather be cold, but please, when possible, try not to wear big coats, scarves and hats because they tend to cover your face. Favor brighter colors over drab dark ones and ask your family and friends to do the same. This is your chance to stand out.
• Water will be made available, but please bring snacks as the audition process will take several hours.
• You will be given up to 1 minute and 30 seconds to audition. Please keep in mind that this is YOUR opportunity to show us your talent, so please come prepared. Producers reserve the right to modify allotted times for auditions at their sole discretion.
• Please walk into the audition room ready to perform. No extensive set up will be permitted. If your act requires extensive set up, please bring a DVD of your performance for the producers to review during your audition.
• Bands will only be able to play acoustically for the initial audition. It is highly recommended if you do not typically play acoustically to bring a DVD of you performing and we will watch it there with you.
• At the producers’ discretion, singers without instruments may be asked to perform a capella, so be prepared to sing without a backing track. If you sing and dance or are a variety act you may use a track. We will have a CD player to play any music you may need during your audition. Please bring a spare copy of the CD in case the first does not work.
• If your act uses music (singer, dancer, band, group, musician, variety performer) we strongly advise you to pick music that is VERY well known. You should think top 40, Pop, R&B, current radio hits, and classics from any musical genre. Also, please be aware that it is exceptionally rare for the judges to put anyone through if they perform original material. Unless your act is so unique (a performance artist, for example) we would advise against performing your own material.
• For those needing a keyboard we will make reasonable efforts to provide one for you in the audition room. (Usually a Yamaha Motif-8 keyboard.)

We are looking forward to seeing your talent and we encourage you to bring at least 2 people with you to cheer you on and share your America’s Got Talent experience. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO RSVP NOW Please see AGTauditions.com for the latest information and audition tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do on audition day?
Once you have your wristband, which will be given out while you are in line, you and your guests, when permitted, will be brought into our holding area where you will be allocated an audition room. If you lose your wristband, you will go to the end of the line, so don’t lose them – NO EXCEPTIONS.

What happens if I am late for the auditions?
Everyone MUST show up for the audition on the scheduled day no later than the time instructed by the Producer. If you are late, you may not have a chance to audition. Audition start and/or finish time is at the discretion of the Producer. Auditions are first come-first serve.

Do you charge for the auditions?
No. Auditions are free. Wristbands are free. You just have to be physically present to get one, have the proper paperwork as listed above, and you cannot audition without one.

How long will I be waiting to audition?
The session time is the time when you are supposed to line up. The lines may be long. You maybe we asked to do interviews or other shots for the show. It could be a full day commitment and you may be outside waiting for part of the time, therefore you should dress accordingly. You are free to bring some drinks or food.

What should I NOT bring with me to the auditions?
The list of prohibited items below is not exhaustive and even if an item is not listed below, the producers and security reserve the right to ask you to remove any such item from the venue. People in possession of prohibited items will be denied admission to the line and to the venue, and may be subject to immediate disqualification. All bags are subject to search.

• Coolers of any kind unless for medical reasons
• Fireworks
• Props that must be used with fire
• Video cameras or camcorders of any kind
• Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives, “army knives” or Swiss Army-type knives, and all swords)
• Illicit drugs or alcohol
• Cameras
• Audio recording devices

We are sorry but during this first round of auditions we cannot have fire, swords or other sharp objects at this venue. If you have prop swords, knifes, or other props that appear dangerous but are not, please alert the staff, and we will try to accommodate you. Also there will not be rigging for aerial acts. However if you are chosen to go to the second round you will be able to use your props, fire and have the option of rigging, if approved in advance by Producers. Please bring a DVD of your act if your act does include these elements.

If I have an animal act, what do I need to bring?
If you have an animal act — please go to the “paperwork” section of our web site, AGTauditions.com and fill out the animal questionnaire. . You must indicate the type of animals you will be performing with so we can make the appropriate arrangements on our end. Each state has different rules and regulations for performing animals, so email us back the form as soon as possible. You also must bring paperwork to prove the animals’ inoculations are up to date.

After the audition, when will I hear if I have been selected for the show?
You may be asked to do your audition a second time for our producers. However, you will not know when you leave your audition if you will be selected to perform for the judges later in the year. All auditions are taped and producers will review these tapes and make selections. Only those contestants that have been selected will be contacted.

What happens in the next round?
The next round will involve you auditioning in front of our celebrity judges. The show will be taped in a local theater in front of a live audience and we will let you know the date as far in advance as possible. If you don’t make it to the next round but would like to come and be part of the theater audience, you can get free tickets by logging on to www.NBC.com/agt.

What if you didn’t answer my question?
Please visit our audition web site at AGTauditions.com for more information or feel free to email us at americasgottalent@fremantlemedia.com

**PRODUCER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE AN AUDITION TO ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ACT FOR ANY REASON OR NO REASON AT ALL, AT THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE PRODUCER. DATES AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

In my post about the America’s Got Talent auditions, I’ve asked for people to submit videos of their talent so we could all see the talent before they go and win America’s Got Talent. Then, we can say we knew them back before they were famous. I also hope that we can provide them some valuable feedback on their talent before they go in front of Piers and company.

Angela, took me up on my offer and pointed me to a couple videos of her 12 year old daughter Pia Mia. She’s a beautiful little girl with a big voice. Let Pia Mia’s mom know what you think of her talent in the comments.

Pia Mia performing “A Moment Like This”

Pia Mia performing “All I Want for Christmas”

Thanks for sharing your daughter with us. Pia Mia definitely has talent. I hope we get to see her on the next season of America’s Got Talent.

A ton of people have requested information on when the next season of America’s Got Talent will be having auditions. We still don’t know specific dates, but America’s Got Talent did send out the following email about the locations for auditions.

We are so excited you are interested in auditioning for NBC’s America’s Got Talent! You have taken the first step to becoming our next million-dollar winner and America’s next big star! This season, we plan on making it bigger and better than ever before. We encourage everyone, any age, with any talent to come participate and strut their stuff!

We are looking for the most unique, unusual, outstanding, incredible talent we can find across America. We are currently scheduled to visit one of the following cities early in 2009:

Atlanta, Georgia
Austin, Texas
Boston, Massachusetts
Chicago, Illinois
Los Angeles, California
Miami, Florida
New York City, New York
Seattle, Washington
Washington, DC

Since you have already registered you can log on to NBC.com/agt for the most current information. You do not need to register again, just start preparing to come show us why your talent may be worth $1,000,000.

Please check this email account and NBC.com/agt regularly for America’s Got Talent updates, including audition city dates, locations and times, special events. Remember to tell all your friends America’s Got Talent is back and coming to a city near you! Cities, dates, venue are subject to change.

Good Luck!

I’m sure they’ll let us know the dates as soon as they have them firmed up. Of course, when I hear anything I’ll be posting it.

NBC previously renewed America’s Got Talent for a fourth season. Tonight on the show, they said that soon they’d start the auditions for America’s Got Talent season 4. Here’s the information on the auditions from the NBC America’s Got Talent website:

Are you are sitting on your couch enjoying America’s Got Talent thinking you have what it takes to impress our judges? We invite you to audition for season 4.

Join our mailing list to get the latest audition updates including the cities we will be visiting.
Good luck and we look forward to seeing your talent!

Simon Cowell, & The America’s Got Talent Production Team

If you’re planning on auditioning, leave a comment with a link to your talent. I’d love to post your talent on my website in anticipation of the next season.

UPDATE: I just found the following on the NBC website:

We have begun the search for the most talented people in America to perform on the fourth season of America’s Got Talent.
TO BE CONSIDERED AS A CONTESTANT FOLLOW THESE THREE STEPS:
1. Make a 2-3 minute videotape of your act. All music performed must be a “cover version” of a popular, published song. NO ORIGINALS please. We will accept VHS & DV tapes along with DVDs. (Please NO hi-8s or formats that need VHS adaptors.) Label the tape or disc with your name, act name, address and phone number.
2. Download and complete the following forms.
Eligibility Requirements/Casting Information Sheet/Personal Release Form
Adobe Reader is required to view the forms. Click here to download a free copy if you do not have it installed. Please take your time and answer all the questions. We will not view your tape, unless you have completed, signed, and enclosed the Casting Information Sheet and Personal Release form.
3. Send it to our producers:
Please label your package and send it to:
America’s Got Talent, Season 4
3727 W. Magnolia Blvd., #808
Burbank, CA 91505
WE’RE COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU.
America’s Got Talent will also be conducting open calls around the country. Cities and dates will be announced soon and all the details and required forms will be posted on this site.