It takes two to tango. But Kalaignar TV's new reality talent show hinges around the idea that it takes two to tap out a tune. Auditions for the preliminary rounds of ‘Paadava Duet Paadalai' were held this weekend in Tiruchi, where around 75 couples tested their mettle at crooning duets.
Different attempt
The show conceptualised and directed by James Vasanthan, music director and television anchor, attempts to differ from the dime a dozen reality shows that populate regional television, by going in for a double act. Anchored by actor-director Suhasini Maniratnam, the show is expected to go on air in the first week of January. The best duo would win the opportunity of performing a duet for a leading music director, who would also be on the panel of judges, says James Vasanthan.
‘Keeping it real'
The show attempts to stray from the beaten track by avoiding drama which is central to most reality shows. “We are trying to keep it as real as possible. Even the interviews with the pairs are impromptu and it is mostly light-hearted fare,” says actor Raghav, who hosts the auditions.
Most of the duos that auditioned for the show are members of local orchestras. While some have devoted hours to practice for getting the synchronisation right, others like S.A.Govindakumar and A. Kalakumari cruised to the next round with a spot selection.
“She is a full time singer and I am a part time singer. We did not even have a rehearsal, but our performance of ‘Kadhal Vaibogam' was appreciated by the judges,” says Govindakumar.
Jaganathan, the co-ordinator of the event, notes that a number of contestants paired up only at the venue. Like Kaveri and Suresh who tested their voices just before the event and decided they were in sync.
Yet there are few real life couples like husband and wife duo, Sivakumar and Kausalya, part –time singers who are confident of going a long way with years of singing in tandem.
A sneak peek into the live auditions revealed singers Krish, Deepa Miriam (Kangal Irandal fame) and Prashanthini, the panel of judges, evaluating the couples. Prashanthini reveals that very few couples have met their expectations but Deepa Miriam attributes it to the innovative concept. Krish reiterates the light hearted concept, observing that the trio have steered clear of criticism.
Eligibility
The first round of auditions would also be held in Tirunelveli, Madurai, Coimbatore, Puducherry and Chennai, following Tiruchi. A pair comprising a male and a female above 16 years is eligible for the contest. A 100 episode programme, the show would also include awards for the best male voice and best female voice.
