Gateway

Issue date: 8/7/07 Section: People

Mohammed Husain, the Gateway's production manager, plans to audition for American Idol later this week. (photo illustration by Patrick Doty) [Click to enlarge]

National sensation American Idol, the television show on Fox where everyday people are given a chance to shine, will be making a stop in downtown Omaha at the Qwest center later this week. And UNO students have found more than one way to be involved in the excitement.

According to the American Idol Web site, americanidol.com, registration will begin Aug. 8 at the Qwest center at 8 a.m., with hopefuls allowed to line up at 6 a.m. However, no overnight camping is allowed.

All contestants must be between the ages of 16 and 28 and are required to show two forms of photo ID to verify birth dates.

Going into its seventh season, American Idol will also be holding auditions in six other major cities across the nation, including San Diego, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, Philadelphia, and Charleston, S.C.

Omaha, according to a report in the Lincoln Journal-Star, was chosen because of its central location in the Midwest, an area frequently over looked by those living on the coasts.

"It's a chance for people not out of New York or L.A. to get a crack at it," said Senior Producer Patrick Lynn in an interview with the Lincoln Journal-Star. "We took a look at the map and asked ourselves, 'Where haven't we been?'"

The stop in the Midwest, while surprising, is a welcome recognition of talent in the area, said Sade Townsell, a senior Journalism major who will be trying her hand, and voice, at the Qwest center Friday.

"I've always sang, since I was little," said Townsell. She said at first she was not sure if auditioning was for her, but when an aunt said she "needed to go," Townsell made up her mind to give it a try.

"But I still don't know what song I'm singing," she said.

Not only are Omaha's vocally gifted given a chance to shine, many students are also working at the event, as part of Public Relations volunteer work.

Audrey Klein, a public relations major, is planning to work the event on Friday, but is unsure of what her responsibilities will be.

"It's just for the day, so it's easier to do and kind of fun, because it's American Idol," said Klein. "I never really thought about the process before, but it makes sense they would need help from the city. It'd be easier than taking all the help they need from city to city."

Although she's happy to volunteer, auditioning is a different story.

"I don't sing." Klein said with a laugh.

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How to audition

When? Omaha auditions for American Idol begin this Friday at 8 a.m.

Where? The auditions take place at the Qwest Center Omaha downtown.

Who? Anyone between the age of 16 and 28 can audition.

How? Those wishing to audition must sign up and obtain a wristband in advance. Signup begins 8 a.m. Wednesday at the Qwest Center. Be sure to bring two forms of identification.

For more information visit americanidol.com.

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