Exactly fifteen years ago, “American Idol” hit TV screens for the first time, forever changing the landscape of reality competition programming. In celebration of the franchise’s anniversary, which also marks the birth year of this season’s youngest eligible contestant, the producers of “American Idol” announced today the start of auditions for the new season of the show, which will be broadcast from its new home on ABC. The nationwide search for the next superstar kicks off on THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, as the Idol Bus jumps into gear across America, offering hopefuls the chance to audition for a shot at super stardom.

From Portland, Oregon, to Orlando, Florida, “American Idol” will search every corner of the nation in its pursuit for talent. Auditioning has never been easier, with the series also taking to the internet, offering hopefuls the opportunity to submit audition videos online at www.americanidol.com or by showing off their talent via Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or Musical.ly using the hashtag #TheNextIdol

AMERICAN IDOL auditions will be held as follows (subject to change):

West Bus Tour

  • Portland, OR – Aug 17
  • Oakland, CA – Aug 20
  • Provo, UT – Aug 23
  • Denver, CO – Aug 26
  • Omaha, NE – Aug 29
  • Tulsa, OK – Sept 1
  • Shreveport, LA – Sept 4
  • Muscle Shoals, AL – Sept 7

East Bus Tour

  • Orlando FL- Aug 17
  • Miami, FL – Aug 19
  • Atlanta, GA -Aug 22
  • Charleston, SC – Aug 25
  • Asheville, NC – Aug 27
  • Louisville, KY – Aug 30
  • Pittsburgh, PA – Sept 3
  • Annapolis, MD – Sept. 5
  • Boston, MA – Sept 8

Open Audition Cities

  • Chicago, IL – Sept 11                                                
  • New Orleans, LA – Sept 14                                                    

You must be at least 15 years old to audition. Visit americanidol.com for more details on specific audition locations, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, terms and conditions.