Another change for the beleaguered "American Idol."
Auditions for the 10th season of the Fox talent show begin July 17 in Nashville — and the age limit has been lowered by a year to 15 for the new season.
"A lot of young, talented people are now seeking careers and representation before they turn 16," Cecile Frot-Coutaz, executive producer of "Idol," said in a statement. "Lowering the age limit allows us to tap into this talent pool."
This year, potential contestants will not be permitted to camp out in line to wait for wristbands.
Other auditions after Nashville are scheduled for Milwaukee, New Orleans, East Rutherford, N.J., Austin and San Francisco.
Auditions are open to men and women ages 15-28 who are eligible to work in the U.S. There are some restrictions; would-be contestants can visit americanidol.com for specific information on those.
In Nashville, wristbands will be distributed from 7 a.m. on July 15 until 8 a.m. on July 17 at Bridgestone Arena. Auditioners then will return to the arena at 5 p.m.
Other auditions are as follows: Milwaukee (Bradley Center), July 21; New Orleans (TBA), July 26; East Rutherford (Izod Center), Aug. 3; Austin (Frank Erwin Center), Aug. 11; and San Francisco (AT&T Park), Aug. 19.
