Invitations open for Songstars auditions

Original Wakatipu musical talents will have a chance to shine in front of an audience when Songstars returns to the stage.

However, aspiring singer-songwriters must audition for the 10 spots.

The producers of Songstars announced on Friday auditions will be held in the Qpact rooms, all day on February 24.

Original artists are invited to email their entry to madrienne61@gmail.com by February 22.

Showbusiness veterans Margaret O'Hanlon, Nigel Hirst, Nicky Viggers and Pol Nicholson, of Whirlwind Productions, formerly known as Underground Productions, will sit on the panel at the audition.

Candidates are asked to perform their own lyrics and music at the audition and can sing a cappella, with a guitar or with a backing track.

Backing singers and a band will be provided when Songstars is staged.

Performers will have the chance to perform their original song when Whirlwind Productions presents the musical showcase for the third year, in the Queenstown Memorial Centre for an extended run, from April 10 to 13.

It will be the first Wakatipu show in the revamped hall.

The winner of Songstars 2013 will receive $1000 and the opportunity to record their song professionally, in a studio.

A total of 25 performers entered last year's audition and Ms Viggers said producers hoped more would enter this year.

''If it's something you've been thinking about for a while, stop thinking about it, take the chance and do it,'' she said.