I know people get fed up with some of the antics and have views on stitch ups, etc. I really think that without these shows some of the people would not go on to big jobs in musical theatre.

so far:
Aoife did do SOM and Chicago
Siobhan got a record deal
Tara now in Joseph (travelling)
Nancy nancy in Les Mis (along with Leanne for hdysaplm)
there are more....

some of the Josephs also have either done travelling show and done others; the show did catapult Lee, because we heard week after week how he was done a disservice by being kept back and not given a lead role by the producer judge.

still, there are people on these shows who have had a taste of the west end and do have experience, but some would never get that big break without these type of shows.

They definitely help. The contestants get the chance to show off their talents, because lets face it, although some are a lot better than others, everyone on these shows are talented. I think it gives a lot of them that break into the West End.

We have to remember that the majority of theatre in the UK is not in the West End

The more interesting and exciting stuff goes on in Fringe and regional venues where new writing and new performers really get a chance to shine

absolutely. there is experience to be had all round really. i just meant like every stage actor you feel like you've made it if you hit broadway in NYC or the west end in London. I have done and seen regional theatre, and the talent in some of these shows is astounding. there are only so many parts in the west end arena or ones where you may be up for a Tony. the well known ones like Patty Lapone in NY, etc. needed a break at one point. heck, Julie Andrews even started on the stage and was amazing in My Fair Lady before doing movies.

I agree they may work for the people who go on the show, but unfortunately they don't work in giving us good quality cast in shows - if anything they are bringing the quality down in some shows which is a shame

I think that some are using it as a springboard for their career - which is fine.

I think some are using it to find new talent for more than just this show - AWL.

I think that it is promoted as the public vote - its far from it.

I think they play on the public's belief that no one would dare to manipulate the outcome coz everyone is such an out standing honest person. - wake up - too much money is at stake.

I think it introduces new people to MT - once they hear it it entices them to see more - so more bums on seats.

AWL said MT is in trouble in the next 10 years as they cannot get enough bums on seats. This is a way to address this by adding new blood - AWL owns about 8 or 12 Theatres......

Comments please................lol

i think it's sad that people may only go to see if the "winner" is any good and is only there to see if they can tear him/her down.