YTV Preps Singing Contest for Tweens

TORONTO, July 7: The Next Star, featuring 12 young contestants 15 and under trying to land a
recording contact, will premiere July 18 on YTV in Canada.

The first two episodes will feature 12 singers selected from
across Canada. Six will be chosen to be mentored throughout the ten remaining
episodes with one selected as the winner. The six featured performers will
receive guidance from a panel of industry professionals on how to survive the
music industry as they are challenged in every aspect of the music
business—from vocal exercises to participating in media interviews to
perfecting a signature look.

The winner will get a recording contract with Universal
Music Canada, have his or her single included on YTV’s Big Fund Party Mix 10,
film a professional music video and receive personal guidance from music
industry experts. All six finalists will have a song included on The Next
Star album to be released after the show’s
finale in September.

Viewers will determine the winner by voting for their
favorite performer through the channel’s website and through text messaging.

Adamo Ruggiero from Degrassi: The Next Generation will host the show, which is produced by Tricon
Films and Television in association with YTV. Musician Suzie McNeil, songwriter
Christopher Ward and music marketing executive Steve Cranwell will serve as
judges.

Jocelyn Hamilton, the VP of content for Corus Kids
Television, said: "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. 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."

Scott Dyer, the executive VP and general manager of Corus Kids
and Nelvana Studios, said: “YTV is thrilled to be bringing its viewers this
original series that takes a fresh approach to the talent search process. 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."

—By Jackie Stewart