The UPC, in conjunction with NTTV Cable Channel 22, will soon begin work on Eagle Idol: Search for a Mean Green Superstar. Auditions for the show will take place at 7 p.m. on Monday.

Applications can be picked up in University Union 216-O Larry Walker, UPC president, said the talent show is not to be taken lightly. As with the real American Idol, contestants will be judged on their vocal quality as well as stage presence.

There is also an essay portion that applicants will be judged on.

Contestants in the preliminary round will be taped for NTTV.

Walker said he urges students to pick up applications as soon as possible because program officials are only accepting 60 applicants.

He added that students who feel they have talent to audition for the contest need to turn in the application by deadline if not earlier.

"Don't be discouraged, it doesn't matter if you are an opera singer or if you sing in the shower," he said. "Just come out and try."

Eight contestants will be chosen to perform on Eagle Idol on Feb. 16. The judges will consists of CEOs of record companies and disc jockeys from the local radio station.

And no idol is complete without a make-over.

Walker said the eight finalists will receive a free make-over to give their appearance more of a "look" similar to a superstar.

The grand prize is similar to American Idol: The winner will have the opportunity to record a five-track demo at Track City Recording Studios and receive 50 complimentary CDs.

Walker said that the second and third-place winners would also receive prizes including copies of the songs that are performed in the show.

Chris Thomas, UPC program adviser, said the competition is a great way to let the Dallas market know that Denton has talented artists as well.

"This contest is providing students with a golden opportunity," he said.

"This is a chance for students to have fun. However, I expect the competition to be highly competitive. I expect top-notch performances; I think people will be blown away by the eight contestants that we choose."

The competition is advertised for all students, no matter what classification, affiliation in organizations or professional vocal experience.

"It's going to bring together all the communities of NT," Walker said. "This program is for the student body as a whole."

Walker, a San Antonio senior, said the UPC is working steadily to ensure the show goes as well as planned.

"The entire staff and different committees of UPC are working so hard to make Eagle Idol a complete success," he said. "I am really looking forward to the show."

beat@ntdaily.com

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