For the first time in its eight-year history, Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall is heading outside of Jamaica in its attempt to recruit hopefuls to compete on the popular talent show as they will host an audition show in Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday.
Originally announced in October by Television Jamaica’s executive director, Mark Kenny, Magnum Kings and Queens will be heading to Port-Of-Spain as they look to complete their pool of 28 artists for the upcoming season. This, as viewership and social media commentary in relation to the show has steadily improved in the country. Sophia Bernard-Fairman, the group brand manager for Fortified Wines & Liqueurs at J. Wray and Nephew Ltd. (one of the show’s sponsors) said it is a great opportunity to build the show’s outreach throughout the Caribbean.
“Magnum is excited to expand the search for reggae and dancehall talent in the Caribbean and is proud to assist in the development of local and regional talent,” she said in a statement. “We will continue to support Kings and Queens in unearthing future stars as they expand their search to the region.”
Auditions locally have taken place in Westmoreland, Ocho Rios, May Pen, Portmore and Kingston over the last month.
Season eight of Magnum Kings and Queens will commence on January 17, 2015. The king and queen of this year’s show will be rewarded a two-year recording deal with Starstruck Records, where they will receive managerial and career advice, among other benefits. A one million (Jamaican) dollar cash prize will also go to the winners.
