Do You Have the X Factor? Auditions at Sanlitun Soho Friday

Auditions for China’s version of The X Factor began yesterday at Sanlitun Soho, so I stopped by today to have a look. From what I saw, there were no number cards or sign-up sheets today. In fact, there wasn’t any queuing, just a huge crowd looking for their big break (or at least their 15 minutes of fame.)

The crowd was interestingly mixed. After being urged to join in (i.e. I was pushed in by one of the promoters), I nervously glanced around only to find hipsters with bowl cuts and skinny jeans, schoolkids skipping class and even a gentleman in a jumpsuit and hard hat.

Even better, the organizers wanted to get us comfortable and to warm us all up. The Black Eyed Peas’ classic “My Humps” blared from the speakers and we were actively encouraged to shake our money makers. Although I don’t think mine garnered much attention, seeing as I was stood next to a six-foot glamazon in a slinky, see-through number.

Contestant #1 was two young Chinese girls who came on stage clutching their lyrics, but before they could belt out their Britney Spears song, they got stage fright and quickly stumbled down the steps.

Contestant #2 was a real treat, though. When a petite Asian man swaggered up on stage, I dropped my head, ready for an excruciatingly embarrassing performance. When he announced he would be singing “Listen” from the Broadway musical (and movie) Dreamgirls, I sighed. What followed was two minutes of auditory heaven. He hit high notes worthy of Beyonce and restored my faith in talent shows.

After hearing that performance, I realized that I wasn’t cut out for show business and skedaddled.

Auditions will continue through tomorrow (8.30am till 6pm) for all you hopefuls out there. And because it’s The X Factor, you can perform any talent. Dance, sing, juggle or maybe even break out the bagpipes and skirl us a tune.

For all you know, you could be China’s answer to Leona Lewis or even better, Susan Boyle. So why not try your luck?

Photo: Carlly Chun