Performers audition for ‘America’s Got Talent’ in New York

“America’s Got Talent” is making its way to New York after a three-month long tour across the country. The show, which brands itself as a program that showcases all talents and people of all backgrounds and ages, is holding an open casting call in New York City on Feb. 1 and 2.

The open auditions, set to take place in St. John’s Center Studios, welcome everyone but particularly target students. According to Vicki Crawford, who works on publicity and outreach for the show, the program has a strong following of younger people and students.

According to Roz Jordan, the show’s supervising casting producer, “America’s Got Talent” attracts a younger crowd because there are few nighttime television shows that appeal to entire families, including those with young children.

Caitlin Ryan, a sophomore in the College of Nursing, thinks the show attracts a young audience because it glamorizes the idea of fame.

“The media idealizes stardom and how every teenager wants to be like their favorite star, whether it’s a singer, dancer or actor because they think it will give them this glamorous life that they can only read about or see in shows like this,” Ryan said.

“We always love students … Students have such a creative perspective on anything,” Jordan said. “We encourage everyone to come on board because we want to inspire all types of people and usher in the younger crowd.”

“America’s Got Talent” has also reached out to NYU students to try to get more city college students involved.

“NYU has such a great range of students from all different places, so it would be really good if we could get a good crowd from NYU to participate in the city auditions,” Jordan said.

Unlike similar talent shows like “X-Factor” and “American Idol,” “America’s Got Talent” features talent in different realms, including flame throwing, dancing and defying gravity.

“Most other shows are very isolated and only deal with one talent,” Jordan said. “Our show combines the best of all those worlds and opens up a playing field for everyone and everything.”

Tatiana Baez is a University Editor. Email her at university@nyunews.com.