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UNITED STATES - The blockbuster American Idol is starting a children's summer camp for the performing arts.
Producers of the TV reality search for the next pop star - which averages 30 million viewers - say the residential camp is for 12 to 15-year-olds passionate about the arts.
Idol Camp will take a total of 700 youngsters over four 10-day sessions at a private school in Massachusetts.
Celebrity artists will take sessions on arts techniques and there will also be traditional camp activities.
Executive Keith Hindle said: "As in American Idol, the goal for the kids is to soar beyond their expectations. However, because Idol Camp is not a competition, every kid goes home a winner."
The cost of a stay is US$2900 ($4160) and some scholarships help ensure a cross-section of eager performers. Entry will not be based on auditions and the children will not be judged by Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson.
- REUTERS