Arts & Entertainment
Locals Audition for 'X Factor'
A Kirkwood hopeful with a love of Broadway was one of many who waited for hours on a recent cold, rainy morning for the chance to win a trip to Chicago to sing for the producers of Simon Cowell's new reality program, 'X Factor.'
Before Chesterfield Mall even opened this past Saturday, a long line of people snaked around from the Cheesecake Factory, past the closed Borders book store and all the way down to the entrance of Sears.
Despite cold temperatures and wet weather, the crowds were attracted by a FOX 2 KTVI promotion that offered four talented vocalists the chance to audition in Chicago in front of the producers for Simon Cowell's new television talent show, The X Factor.
Once they finally reached the front of the line, contestants were given the opportunity to perform an acappella selection for just 30 seconds before surrendering the microphone to the next performer. Winners were chosen by FOX 2 anchor April Simpson, Y98 radio personality Guy Phillips and singer-songwriter Erin Bode.
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Despite the efficient audition process and quick turnover, many hopeful performers were literally left out in the cold. A little after 11 a.m., FOX 2 representatives cut off the queue just outside of the mall doors. A few people were vocal in their frustration and disappointment, but having missed the chance to make an impression in St. Louis, their next best option was to make the trip to Chicago for the official tryouts on April 27.