[James]

This is from the Channel 4 site.

Big Brother Auditions FAQ
31-Jan-2004

Why have you decided to change the audition process and hold open auditions?
Big Brother changes every year and this year we wanted to do something different with the auditions. We also wanted to be able to see as many people as possible. In the past, potential housemates have been invited to send in application forms and videos but we have only been able to see a limited number of people. Not everyone has access to a video camera, so holding open auditions gives everyone an equal chance of applying. It also means the production team will be able to see a wider cross section of the public. We’ll be visiting major cities around the U.K. to give everyone the opportunity to come along and audition. We also wanted to make it easier for you, so we’re coming to a city near you!

Are you looking for a specific type of housemate? What criteria are you looking for?
No, there is no stereotypical ideal housemate. We’re just looking for people who stand out from the crowd and who are interesting and fun. We are not looking for clones of past Big Brother housemates we’ve already seen, just unique people who can be themselves.

Will everyone be seen at the auditions?
The process will start as soon as you arrive but not everyone will make it inside the audition rooms. We will only be selecting those we’re interested in and who we want to see more of. This is your chance to shine so you’ll need to make sure that you stand out from the crowd and make an impact in order to be chosen from the queue and invited to attend the auditions.
However, we are holding 8 audition days in 7 different cities, so if you don’t have any luck, you are welcome to try again at another audition.

Will I need to fill out a form to get into the audition?
No, you won’t need to fill out a form in advance. Just turn up at your chosen venue and join the queue, where the audition process will begin. However, if you are successful and invited inside the auditions, you will be required to complete an application form.

If I’m at the back of the queue will I still get to audition?
Everyone who turns up will be seen by a member of the production team, as the process begins the minute you arrive. We won’t be operating on a first-come first-serve basis so you could be at the back of the queue and still be asked to come in and audition. But wherever you are in the queue, you’ll need to get yourself noticed in order to get to the next stage.

What happens, once I get past the queue and into the auditions?
Once inside the auditions, you’ll be given your chance to sell yourself and tell us why you think you should go into the Big Brother house.

You have said that couples as well as individuals are welcome. Why are you inviting couples to audition?
This year we are casting the net as wide as possible and we didn’t want rule out anyone, even if they’re in a couple. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that there will be any couples in the final Big Brother housemate line-up.

What do I need to bring to the auditions?
It might be a long day, so we’d recommend that you bring some refreshments, warm clothes and comfortable footwear.

Can I apply if I’ve applied and been rejected in previous years?
Yes, you are welcome to apply again for this year’s Big Brother.

If I miss an audition, have I missed out?
No, open auditions will be running every week in a different UK city from 14 February to 14 March to give everyone enough opportunities to find a suitable audition. If you miss the one nearest to your hometown, you’ll be able to find another audition to go to the next week.

If I miss out on the final London audition on 14 March, can I still apply?
No, this is the final audition and the last chance to apply for this summer’s Big Brother.

What happens after I’ve auditioned?
Only successful applicants will be contacted after the auditions.

Are there auditions in the Republic of Ireland? Can people from the Republic Of Ireland still audition?
Applicants from the Republic of Ireland are welcome to attend any of the audition dates.

Will each venue have disabled access?
Yes, we welcome all applicants including any with disabilities.

How old will I have to be to audition?
Anyone can audition if they are 18 years old or older. There is no upper age limit.

What will be different about Big Brother this year?
Every Big Brother is different from the previous year, so yes you can expect some changes and surprises!

http://www.channel4.com/entertainmen...tions_faq.html

I wonder if they will show Pop Idol style audition shows on TV.