Talent Show

What do Bill Kaulitz, Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake have in common? That's right, they were able to win over the judges of the respective talent shows they entered! Agencies, including modelling agencies , and TV stations around the world organise casting shows in which talents of all kinds, from singers and models to acrobats, compete. But how does a talent show actually work?

What is a talent show?

A talent show, also known as a casting show, is a selection and marketing tool. Just in time for the millennium, ‘Popstars from New Zealand’ was the first casting show to be broadcast in German-speaking countries on RTL, ProSieben and TV3 in Switzerland. In 2002, RTL launched ‘Deutschland sucht den Superstar (DSDS)’, inspired by the British TV programme Pop Idol. Sat. 1 followed suit with ‘Star Search', made famous by the US launch of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake. In short, everyone was looking for singers! In Germany, Bill Kaulitz from Tokio Hotel got his big break from a talent show. Later, the circle of talent expanded to include models, comedians, children, choirs and many more formats that are now licensed worldwide.

How can you take part in a talent show?

Castings are tickets to stardom. If you stand out in the competition, you'll get through. Every TV programme is preceded by mass castings of thousands of applicants. If you are one of the chosen ones, you can prove yourself in further rounds (recalls). At the end of the competition, the winners are decided on, not only by the expert jury but also by a public vote via smartphone. The format is a win-win for everyone, the viewer gets to feel like they’re part of the show by voting, the TV stations are interested in the lucrative success of the talents, as well as high viewer rates and advertising revenue, and finally the winners receive cash prizes - up to one million dollars in the USA.

What should you look out for when applying?

There are also black sheep in the casting world who, in search of personal gain, mistreat the talents. This includes showing off young talent when they may not be ready and working stars to the point of a burn out. To avoid this, take your time when looking for a reputable casting show. Read the written conditions of participation carefully and make sure you’re ok with them. Examples include:
- Minimum age
- Duration of performance
- Solo or group performance
- Permitted props

Are talent shows completely scripted or are they authentic?

Talent shows are generally staged for a television programme, this means that the schedule and the basis of the programme follow a script in order to keep it exciting and entertaining. Where there is a lot of money at stake, little is left to chance.

What should candidates know?

Self-confidence is key. You have to be able to present your talent in front of scrutinising eyes. It's all about originality, personality and charisma. As a TV candidate, you should know how labour-intensive and tight the (selection) process is. You should be punctual and prepared to have your photos published on social media - the first step on the way to stardom is getting your face out there. You should also have the necessary grit to go through many strenuous rounds and ability to take constructive criticism: Can you stand the judges cutting the music or performance short? Even then, you should remain polite towards the jury and the other candidates.

What is your secret talent?

Are you one of the funniest ventriloquists, bravest stuntmen or most amazing magicians? Or are you passionate about poetry slams, dog training - or something completely different? Then go for it! You’ll find you can apply online. You’ll likely be put on a waiting list and given information about deadlines - this gives participants and organisers security.

Have you got the magic?

A talent show can be your way to fame! At starboxx, numerous companies are looking for the right talent for their TV, music and film productions . Register with us - simply register for free and upload your photos.