X Factor shake up as auditions are set to take place in smaller venues
Arenas out - in with working mens' clubs
- James Arthur
Tags: X Factor
Rumours suggest X Factor's arena auditions are a thing of the past, with reports suggesting auditions in 2013 will take place in smaller, intimate venues.
The show is set for big shake-ups this year after falling ratings and unpopular artists and judges, following the departure of former favourites Simon Cowell, Dannii Minogue and Cheryl Cole. As well as a cull of 2012 judges, show sources claim the audition process will now be scaled back to encourage more wannabes to auditions.
"We always talk about the singer’s ‘journey’ but visually the live shows don’t seem much different from the auditions," says a show source to The Sun newspaper. "We need a significant point of difference between the audition and the live show.
"Smaller venues is the latest idea and it’s one we quite like as it’s new and could feel fresh."
Early series of the show saw singers audition in small studios in front of the judging panel, but this was later moved to huge arenas, with singers performing in front of an audience of thousands.
No more arena auditions - but we are sure the contestant quality will remain high
Former N-Dubz singer Tulisa is reportedly set for the axe from the show, despite the star herself stating that no decision had be reached about her future role on the show.
Former judge Sharon Osbourne is said to be in 'pole position' to return to the show, and bring back some much needed spark to the ailing talent show.
"Simon is a big fan of Sharon," a source told The Sun. "Things are looking good for her. She is in pole position."
Below: X Factor live: James Arthur, Christopher Maloney and more
