Sifymax to turn cyber cafes to virtual studios

Sifymax is turning its over 3,400 cyber cafes into virtual studios which can conduct screen tests, auditions and record performances of wannabe filmstars.

The internet major has joined hands with Zee TV to launch Zee Cinestars, a reality talent hunt programme, to be conducted in 154 cities in the country.

Accordingly, aspiring youths will be asked to visit the nearest iWays to record their performances. iWays are Sify's branded chain of cyber cafes in the country.

Zee Cinestars, an hour-long talent hunt programme, encourages youths to showcase their acting and dancing skills. The reality show will zero in on two potential stars who will be featured in a forthcoming film produced under a leading banner and the shortlisted candidates will be given chance to act in a movie to be directed by Subhash Ghai.

According to V Sivaramakrishnan, Sify president (portals) , a participant would have to sit in front of a web camera at iWays and record his/her performance. The recorded version can be uploaded onto www.zeecinestar.sifymax.com.

The site also provides guidelines which is updated in audio-video format on the website. Later, the recordings will be uploaded on Sifymax.com, where visitors will vote for their favourite performers and select the best male and female actors.

Zee TV has already begun the auditions at iWays and is expected to continue it till September 20. This is the second year of Cinestars.