Andrews Idol season 3 begins

  • Nicole Wright/Staff Correspondent Traci MacLaine sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews.
    Nicole Wright/Staff Correspondent Traci MacLaine sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews.
  • Sam LaMontagne sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews. LaMontagne, also a contestant in season two, was chosen to advance to further elimination rounds later in the month.
    Sam LaMontagne sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews. LaMontagne, also a contestant in season two, was chosen to advance to further elimination rounds later in the month.
  • Jose Perez sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews. Perez was chosen to advance to further elimination rounds later in the month.
    Jose Perez sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews. Perez was chosen to advance to further elimination rounds later in the month.
  • Cousin Billy Pruitt sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews. Pruitt was chosen to advance to further elimination rounds later in the month.
    Cousin Billy Pruitt sings in the first round of Andrews Idol’s season three at The Blue Stage on Saturday in Andrews. Pruitt was chosen to advance to further elimination rounds later in the month.

    Andrews – Andrews Idol’s third season began Saturday night at The Blue Stage, 899 Main St. downtown.

    This season’s competition features 24 contestants and will be spread over three Saturdays in August, with advancing finalists and elimination rounds announced later in the month.

    Again offering a $1,000 grand prize and free studio time for the winner, the competition aims to feature the best performances from Southeastern regional artists, including contestants from Asheville to Blue Ridge, Ga.

    Details: Visit thebluestage.com.