Sunbird Search for a Star prize increased

The winner of this year’s Sunbird Search for a Star, Malawi sole talent show, will get more than the K500 000 (US$1 229) top prize for the last edition, both sponsors and organisers have confirmed.

“We have lived up to our word that the show is back again, bigger and better. Among other changes, we have a surprise cash top prize which will be announced at an opportune time but, it is more than what last year’s winner, Adrian Kwelepeta pocketed,” said project director Felix Njawala.

Sunbird Tourism Limited, who are the main official sponsors, could also not divulge more details on the top prize.

“It is a surprise and will remain so until time is ripe. That aside, it will be a new show with different approach altogether. We want to continue from our strength having learnt a number of lessons,” explained hotel chain’s communications officer Akossa Mphepo.

She said planning with all other partners like AXA is done and what is remaining is execution.

“I cannot specifically mention the dates of our programme but auditions should happen between July and August as we plan to finish early. We have also reduced the number of shows with six contestants making it to the last round.

“Of course, after the auditions, we will take some time before the eviction stages of the show kicks off. This is as a result of us trying to prepare them psychologically. From the first eviction, contestants will perform with a live band, and obviously, these people will need some eye opening sessions on how to perform with the band among others,” she explained.

Meanwhile, the organisers are still calling on people who can handle the wardrobe as well as makeup for the contestants.

“The standards have changed further and we are looking at clothes for the contestants during the eviction shows, a makeup artist just to mention a few. We can clinch a partnership with such individuals,” said Mphepo.