Saudi 'Got Talent' but no women or music
No chance of Simon Cowell finding a Saudi Susan Boyle in Buraydah.
A Saudi city known for its ultra-conservatism has created its own version of the Arabs Got Talent TV reality show, but with no music and women banned from taking part. Instead, competitors will be permitted to perform religious chants, recite poems and engage in sports events.
The contest is being held north of the capital in the city of Buraydah, known as a centre for Wahhabism, a strict interpretation of Islam that's followed in the desert kingdom, reported Al-Hayat daily last week.
Buraydah's Got Talent is the title of the contest which will abide by the strict rules of segregation between the sexes, meaning it's not open to women.
Music, singing and dancing are strict no-nos, despite being staples in Britain's Got Talent and similar talent competitions that have become a global viewing phenomenon with national versions televised in 32 countries.
The Saudi version, organised by the Internet Buraydah Forum, will take place in the open air before a jury comprising a poet, a TV producer and TV presenters, said Al-Hayat, quoting forum supervisor Jalawi al-Shukair.
The Dubai-based Saudi TV group MBC has for two seasons been running Arabs Got Talent, and a Saudi group is among this year's finalists.
Source: Relaxnews
Published: 25th June 2012
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