American Idol searches for next star in Rapid City

Hundreds of people lined up at the Civic Center today all for a shot at being the next American Idol.

Some brought their voices and others, their instruments, but they all made their way to the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center bright and early for a shot at becoming the next American Idol. After being off air since 2015, the series is returning back to the big screen and for the first time, Rapid City is on its list to continue the search. Producers say the show auditions couldn't have been extended to a better place and that it was the people in this area that made today possible.

Nancy Yearing, Americon Idol Casting Producer says, "I've been saying that I have been having a South Dakota love affair. it's been so amazing to be here and it was actually a fan selected city."

Some of those same fans decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to let their talents be heard.

Alexandra Braze says, "When I was a little girl, I would watch the show and I would tell my grandma someday I am going to go out for American Idol and I finally have a chance."

Joshua Ten Eyck says, "This is my dream, there's nothing else so this is my dream, this is what I want to do."

James Baer says, "I've always had a passion for singing and music in general so I saw this opportunity and kind of wanted to jump at it."

While others say for them, it's the experience that counts the most.

Cameron Atwood says, "I'm just here for fun. If I make it, then that's cool but I I don't, there's always next time. try to be positive and have a good attitude."

That's the same attitude that just might take them to the next round.

"The next step after today would be getting a second look from our executive producers and if it is a yes from them, then you're going right in front of Katy and you'll be standing at that door with Ryan and your family ready to go in and sing," Yearing continued.

Whether they got that chance or not, most walked away with their heads held high.

Jericha Sisk says, "For me it's a win today. Whether I got that golden ticket or whether I'm going to Hollywood doesn't matter, I did what I set out to do. I came and sang my heart out, did what I needed to do so I get to go home and tell my little girl, hey it's good."

Zoe Keen says, "My biggest takeaway is probably just to keep going because it is something that I love and this was good because now I've done it and I have the experience and I can come back and do it again stronger."

American Idol will run auditions in two more cities before the return to its home, Los Angeles, and host a final set of auditions before it moves to its next phase of the competition.