Behind the Scenes of America's Got Talent Auditions

Many are eager to audition for America's Got Talent and perform in front of America's most famous judges. However, the reality of the process is a bit different than what we see on TV.

Initial Auditions with Producers

Not every contestant gets the chance to stand in front of the main judges. Before the televised auditions, there is a preliminary round with the producers. These producers have the power to select acts that may not be the best, but are entertaining enough to keep the audience engaged. According to YouTube comments, this is sometimes the case. Bad performances can draw laughter and applause from viewers, which is crucial for the show's success.

Personal Experience as a Contender

As a singer/songwriter, I auditioned for AGT in Richmond, Virginia, in the fall of 2014. The audition process began with receiving a call number and wearing it on my shirt. There were hundreds, if not thousands, of people waiting to enter the building. The wait could take anywhere from 4 to 10 hours, depending on the venue, but it was worth it for these kinds of auditions.

Once inside, we were paired up in audition rooms where we performed in front of three low-level judges. The judges viewed approximately 15 people through a series of rounds. I was one of the few who made it to the next step: an audition with the producers. The producer asked for a different song and to "raise the bar." Unfortunately, I chose original material, which might not have been the best choice. He also inquired if I had any other songs; I did, and I performed another original on the piano. If I had chosen a cover, I might have made it to the celebrity judges. However, I did not.

After a few months, I received a notification saying that the talent for my city had already been chosen to advance. It was a bitter-sweet moment. I felt proud for making it to the producer level, but also disappointed that I did not make it further. There was a lot of talent at the audition, and I heard rumors that some participants were already signed to labels or managed by people who helped them bypass the regular audition process.

Final Selections

Only those who are selected as finalists get to see the “main” show judges. Before reaching that stage, one must pass through numerous auditions with producers and assistant producers. The process is rigorous and competitive, ensuring that only the best acts make it to the television stage.

Conclusion

The intricate layers of the America's Got Talent audition process highlight the behind-the-scenes efforts and the stringent selection criteria. While many performers dream of standing in front of the show's judges, only a select few get that opportunity. Understanding this process can help both hopeful contestants and viewers appreciate the journey that these talented individuals undertake.