America’s Got Talent is moving into its Live Shows after weeks of auditions and judge callbacks, with 44 acts advancing to the season 21 quarterfinals, according to E! News.
The performers taking the stage at Pasadena Civic Auditorium in California include musicians, comedians, magicians, dancers, stunt performers, contortionists and animal trainers. Judges Simon Cowell, Sofía Vergara, Melanie “Mel B” Brown and Howie Mandel gave five acts a second chance during callbacks, but NBC says audience votes will now decide who stays in the competition.
Terry Crews is set to host the first round of the quarterfinals on Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. on NBC. Viewers will get the results the following day, and the quarterfinals will continue through Sept. 8.
The article also explained several behind-the-scenes details about the show, including that contestants usually go through open calls or video auditions before reaching the judges. According to NBCUniversal, virtual open calls last up to 90 seconds, video submissions should be under two minutes, and some items like fire, fireworks, weapons and props requiring pyrotechnics are not allowed at open call auditions.
According to the show’s audition guidelines, AGT helps cover travel costs for those who make it to the judges round, including airfare, hotel stays and a daily food allowance. The grand prize is $1 million, payable as an annuity over 40 years or as the present value of that annuity.
