Third season of Miri City Idol set to attract 300 aspiring singers

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Noraini (front, second right) and Chin on her left join other members of MCI 2018 organising committee in a photo-call after the press conference.

MIRI: The Miri City Idol (MCI) is back for its third season.

Organised by Natz Production Sdn Bhd, this year’s event will kick off on Feb 24, followed by weeks of training and selection rounds that will lead to the grand finale, to be staged at Permaisuri Imperial City Mall here this March 25.

“We are expecting more than 300 people during the auditions. Those selected will then undergo the ‘MCI Boot Camp’ ahead of the finale,” MCI 2018 organising chairperson Noraini Alision Salleh told reporters in a press conference here yesterday.

The first season in 2015 was carried out as a ‘pocket event’ of the annual Miri Festival and Sarawakiana programme. This was followed by the second season in 2016 – the MCI was put on hold last year to make way for the production of the MCI compilation album.

This year’s auditions will take place at Natz Production studio-office near Saberkas Commercial Centre here this Feb 24 and 25.

According to Noraini, the secretariat has so far registered over 40 singers from here, Bintulu, Kuching, Baram and Brunei for the auditions.

“This competition is open to all, aged 13 and above, except recording artistes from any record label or companies.

“They will be judged on their vocals, stage presentation and personality by members of the organising committee and renowned musicians during the auditions,” she said.

On the boot camp, Noraini said the participants would get the opportunity to meet some of the nation’s renowned entertainment figures such as Edry Hashim of the KRU’s fame and legendary performer Salamiah Hassan.

“The participants will have to attend vocal and instrument classes, as well as grooming lessons. They will also learn about public speaking and how to handle themselves well on stage.

“Their coaches will include local celebrities and entertainment figures.”

Six out of hundreds of hopefuls will get to showcase their talents at the finale next month, where the next ‘Miri Idol’ will be crowned.

In addition, there will also be two awards up for grabs – the ‘Best Vocal’ and ‘Best Performance’ awards.

“Award-winning lyricist Sulu Sarawak will compose a new song for the winner, and that single will be produced by us (Natz Production),” added Noraini.

Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Senadin publicity chief Erick Chin was also present at the press conference.

“Everyone has the right to express their feelings in a creative way. Thus, Miri City Idol is a platform that serves this purpose.

“Sarawakians should know how to market their talents, and this is the time (for them) to practise. “Hopefully with such exposure, many talented Sarawakians would emerge as part of the products of the nation’s entertainment industry,” said Chin.

For further information about Miri City Idol 3 auditions, contact Eira at 085-5660781 / 014-2370313.