The Next Star premieres July 18

From a media release:

Who Will Be The Next Star? New YTV Talent Series Premieres Friday, July 18 At 6 P.M. ET/PT

• The First Talent Series in Canada for Kids 15 and Under

After an intense cross-Canada search, host Adamo Ruggiero (Degrassi: The Next Generation) and a panel of judges – musician Suzie McNeil (Rockstar: INXS), songwriter Christopher Ward and music marketing exec Steve Cranwell – have chosen 12 young hopefuls to participate in YTV’s highly anticipated talent series, The Next Star, premiering on Friday, July 18 at 6 p.m. ET/PT.

“We were thrilled with the response we received at the casting calls. Parents and kids turned up in droves in cities all across Canada to audition for The Next Star,” said Jocelyn Hamilton, VP Content, Corus Kids Television. “This is going to be a programming event that will keep Canadian kids and their families tuned in throughout the summer to witness the journey of these young talented singers.”

Produced by leading Toronto distributor and producer Tricon Films and Television in association with YTV, the first two episodes feature young hopefuls from across the country. Twelve singers will continue to participate, with six chosen to be mentored throughout the remaining 10 episodes, but only one will be The Next Star. The six featured performers will receive guidance from a panel of industry professionals on how to tackle the music industry as they are challenged in every aspect of the biz – from vocal exercises to participating in media interviews to perfecting a signature look.

“YTV is thrilled to be bringing its viewers this original series that takes a fresh approach to the talent search process,” said Scott Dyer, EVP and General Manager, Corus Kids and Nelvana Studios. “The kids don’t just compete; they’re learning every step of the way. There may only be one Next Star at the end of the summer but everyone is going to leave the show a winner.”

Viewers at home will vote for their favourite performer via www.YTV.com and text message, determining who will receive a recording contract with Canada’s leading music company Universal Music Canada, have their single included on YTV’s Big Fun Party Mix 10, plus a professional music video and personal guidance from music industry hit-makers. All six singers will have a song included on The Next Star CD, scheduled to be released after the show’s September finale.

Fans can also find loads of entertaining content on www.YTV.com, from bios and photos of the host, judges, and participants, to exclusive streamed clips and personal moments with the 12 singers, to inside looks at upcoming episodes. Viewers can also join the community of fans through The Next Star message boards and sign up to receive a Next Star newsletter which will feature the freshest news and show developments.