Thousands of potential “Idols” arrived to audition in Orlando, the land of dreams. Joined by Glee’s Kristin Chenoweth, Simon, Kara and Randy arrived from Miami just in time to check out Theo. Theo came into auditions decked out in glitter and a polka-dot scarf. Simon didn’t think Theo could pull it down to earth close enough to excel, and the very first contestant was dismissed with four nos and a hug from Kara.
Theo seemed to set the tone for the morning, and as the bizarre continued to take the stage, Kara and Kristin teamed up to maintain spirits. Poor Simon’s mood was worse than ever, which tends to lead to a sharper tongue.
Seth Rollins was hoping his audition would provide his family with a last chance at a little hope. As he stepped up to perform Frank Sinatra’s “Someone to Watch Over Me,” Simon got that look in his eye. Either his headache was finally lifting, or he was secretly impressed. After four enthusiastic yeses, Seth was the first golden ticket of the Orlando auditions.
After that, it was a balance between yes and no, with many star-reachers not quite cutting the mustard. Jermaine Purifoy auditioned for “American Idol” before, but knew when he was turned down he wasn’t quite ready. Performing Tony Bennett’s “Smile,” he managed to prove to the judges he had what it took to go on to the next level.
Shelby Dressel overcame a difficult childhood deformity, and despite severe self-consciousness about her appearance, she dazzled the judges with a Nora Jones song. Simon liked her, but wasn’t overly impressed with her voice, but all four judges gave her a big fat yes, making her the 18th contestant chosen on day one.
Kristin had to return to New York, so day two saw the judges acting without a guest judge.
The first contestant of the day incorporated beat box effects into The Beatles “Come Together.” It didn’t really show his range as a singer. When Randy asked if he could sing, he belted out a tune, but the judges couldn’t get past his sound effects. Simon said no, Kara said yes, and managed to convince Randy to side with her. Jay Stone was the first golden ticket of the day.
A few ladies managed to impress the judges enough to head on to the Hollywood round, but then Cornelius Edwards split his pants while performing “Big Wheels Keep on Turning.” Simon said it was enough of a sacrifice to win his vote, and Randy and Kara agreed.
The DiSimone sisters auditioned together. Bernadette went first, performing “Hit the Road Jack.” Amanda followed her with Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” Even though Simon would have sent Amanda packing, both sisters managed to score golden tickets.
There’s always a joker in the crowd. Jared Norrell was Orlando’s joker. Performing “Amazing Grace” in a tone reminiscent of Jane’s Addiction’s Perry Farrell, I wasn’t sure the guy was serious. He pleaded to sing one more song, but the judges were horrified at the prospect. They actually called in security to help him out of the audition because he refused to leave. Wow. Was that even real? Next thing you know, they’ve got the guy in cuffs outside the building. Simon lightened the mood, asking Randy and Kara, “Yes or no?” He’s such a funny guy. I think I love him.
Matt Lawrence robbed a bank with a beebee gun at fifteen, destroying his youth and tearing his family apart. He feels that if he can make it on American Idol, it’ll give his family something to be proud of. He performed “Trouble” by Ray LaMontagne. Simon was impressed, and it was a unanimous vote in.
While not everyone’s dreams came true in Orlando, for those who did manage to make it to the next round it really was the happiest place on earth. Next Tuesday, the auditions continue in Los Angeles. I’ll see you there.
That whole Jared Norrell but was hilarious. I don’t know if the guy was one something, or really thought he could sing. Probably the latter. Oh, and Beat Box Boy FTW!