This better not be the big news they've been promising: American Idol is spinning off into a summer camp.
A press release from Idol producers FremantleMedia announces Idol Camp: "the first performing arts summer camp for kids between the ages of 12-15 based on the nation's most watched television show and #1 talent search... a fun-filled and non-competitive training ground for America's future stars" that "will include master classes from surprise celebrity guest performing artists, favorite former American Idol contestants and other top industry professionals."
It's not exactly American Pie's Band Camp. And no, the kids won't be going to Hollywood. Ten-day sessions start in July, far from the action at "a picturesque campus in Northfield, Massachusetts." And with classes that go beyond the Idol essentials to include acting, music video production, show production, writing and dancing, it sounds like they took someone else's performing arts camp and slapped the Idol sticker on the sign.
But will it give your kid an edge in the real Idol auditions?
NO!
Fremantle warns that enrollment "DOES NOT GUARANTEE (the caps are theirs) entrance into the American Idol television series competition, nor will it provide inside information or any other advantage in the American Idol audition process."
As long as Paula stays away from the kids, we'll think about. Applications will be available tomorrow at the website.
--Tabloid Baby