MWI will work alongside Toronto-based Tricon Films & Television to search for Canada’s Next Star, a televised talent search that will air on YTV this summer.

The Next Star first aired on YTV last year, and quickly became one of the hottest shows for youth on Canadian television. The program’s live finale drew an audience of close to one million viewers.

Auditions for talented young singers (ages 15 and under) will take place in major markets across the country. When those auditions are complete, 16 of the best will travel to Toronto, from which six are chosen to move forward through ‘star school’.

The singers will be mentored throughout the show by a panel of industry experts (including songwriter Christopher Ward, singer Suzie McNeil and industry veteran Steve Cranwell), and guided by show host Adamo Ruggerio through a variety of activities and challenges aimed at helping them develop as artists.

The Next Star will culminate in a live concert finale, airing on YTV in October. At the end of this live finale, viewers will be able to vote (via website and texting) on The Next Star.

Both Metalworks Institute and Metalworks Studios will be active participants in The Next Star, with a number of The Next Star activities and challenges scheduled to take place at Metalworks.

Stay tuned for The Next Star, which will begin airing on YTV this month.