Popular American reality music show “American Idol” franchised into “Maldivian Idol”. which is set to become the biggest show produced by a local television station, began airing late Friday on state television channel Television Maldives (TVM). Produced by Public Service Media (PSM), the show is categorised into four rounds and already indicates a new level of creativity, said TVM’s crew and senior officials. “It’s hard for us to believe, too. This is such a quality show,” said PSM director of e-commerce and marketing, Ibrahim Nasreen. “It will be very interesting for viewers; this such a unique show.” Maldivian Idol’s producers asserted that the show is not merely for singing and recreation, but will also depict various challenges across the Maldives and the effects of values good and bad. Hence, the show will bring a range of community issues to public attention. “Every participant is their own character. Each one of them brings a story to tell the viewers,” said Nasreen. “Good values and bad values; much of these issues will be seen in the show.” Maldivian Idol rounds Open Audition: to seek and recruit contestants from capital Male and other regions Theatre Round: challenge for chosen contestants from various regions Piano Round: challenge for Top 16 contestants from Theatre Round Top Twelve: contests for the main show Over 600 hopefuls participated in the Maldivian Idol auditions conducted across the islands Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaal atoll, Naifaru in Lhaviyani atoll, Villigili in Gaafu Alif atoll, Addu City and Male City. The first airings, which began Friday, are the first rounds of the Male auditions. Public voting will open from the Top 16 contestants in the Piano Round onwards. Foreign assistance Nasreen stated that the show is proceeding with the counsel of the Idol franchise’s main company FreemantleMedia UK and the Indian Idol production company. In addition to being part of an international franchise, Maldivian Idol is also the most expensive television show produced in the Maldives. Airing times Maldivian Idol airs every Friday and Saturday at 10:30 p.m. Around 30 shows are scheduled to be aired, with the Grand Finale showing on April 30. MALE, October 7, 2015: The ceremony held at state broadcaster Television Maldives (TVM) on October 7, 2015 to announce the prize offered to the winner of upcoming reality singing competition Maldivian Idol. HAVEERU PHOTO/ MOHAMED SHARUHAAN “This is a 100 percent Maldivian-produced mega project. This will be a show to produce promising singers for the next generation,” said a member of the Maldivian Idol team on condition of anonymity. The team member added that the show is produced to encompass Maldivian culture and environment, with a lot of fun scenes and maintain propriety for all ages. “The show will meet everyone’s expectations.” The winner of Maldivian Idol will receive a cash prize of MVR 250,000. The three seats on the panel of judges are occupied by famous local singers Ahmed Ibrahim, Ibrahim Ali and Mariyam Unoosha, with hosts Aishath Maureen and Moosa Waseem. The creative director of the show is Muaviyath Anwar, with directors Aishath Azma and Mujuthaba Rasheed.