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Barney Mpariwa

Brenda Phiri Entertainment Reporter
National talent search show Star Brite has returned with a fourth season in spite of challenges that marred the last term. The show, that has previously attracted its fair share of criticism over its quality, seems to be on an upward drift getting endorsement from renowned afro-jazz musician Dorothy Masuka, who came for the show early this year.

The organisers have, however, said they remain determined to making this season memorable.

Show executive director Barney Mpariwa said they have been on a drive to involve as much talent as their auditions in- tensify.

“Since starting the auditions, the roadmap got the country divided into regions. In all, there are four regions – Region 1 made up of Marondera, Nyanga, Mutare and Masvingo. Nyanga was added on to the road courtesy of (ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister) Hon (Supa) Mandiwanzira,” said a jovial Mpariwa.

“Region 2 included Chegutu, Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, Bulawayo, Hwange and Vic Falls. Chegutu was added on courtesy of (former ICT minister) Honourable (Webster) Shamu.”

He said Norton, Chinhoyi and Bindura made up Region 3 while Harare is Region 4. The organisers are now stepping up preparations for the Harare region auditions that are scheduled for August 7 to 9.

“We have introduced a new element. Soon after the Harare auditions, the contestants will be grouped into two regions (which are) North and South. South will include Mat North, South and Bulawayo. The rest of the regions will form the Northern Re- gion.

The Southern Region will meet in Bulawayo for the second and third rounds while Harare will host the Northern Region.”

The successful candidates from the regions will earn the right to attend boot camp at the end of August. Already, fireworks are tipped to be a part of the show with organisers expressing excitement over the talent that has been exhibited since the 2015 season started on June 16.

The provincial auditions were launched on July 1. Harare Central Prison and Chikurubi Prison will also be part of the action this year.

“Inmates from Chikurubi Female Prison have also auditioned,” said Mpariwa.