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“American Idol” can put you on TV.
But a project from some Kansas City filmmakers could put you on the big screen.
“The Idol” is both a search for “the next great vocal artist” and a potential movie. Everything will be filmed. But here’s the twist: The movie, to be called “The Price of Fame,” will mix scripted action with the reality of a singing contest that offers real prizes.
The first auditions will be this week in Lawrence. Between then and next spring, “The Idol” will hold tryouts in several other cities, including Mexico City.
“Unlike ‘American Idol,’ we’re not nationally bound,” says John Penn, president of To the Moon Productions, based in Lee’s Summit.
“And unlike ‘American Idol,’ there are no age restrictions (on contestants). We’re looking for the best talent, and that might be someone 31 years old or it might be 15.”
The film will focus on two women battling to become “The Idol.”
“Those two characters will be mixed in along with the actual competitors,” Penn says.
Those parts haven’t been cast yet, and Penn says he might approach Carrie Underwood, a real “American Idol” winner, or Katharine McPhee, an “AI” runner-up. It’s also possible, he says, that one or both actresses might be found at the singing auditions.
Whatever happens, a real person will win the singing competition, Penn says. He’s promising that winner a car, a national recording contract and cash. He’s planning for the finale to take place next spring in Kansas City.