INSP renews Christian Artist Talent Search for second season

C.A.T.S., INSP’s Christian Artist Talent Search television program has been renewed for a second year, as announced today by The Inspiration Networks. The Inspiration Networks is the originator, sponsor, and producer of this talent search/TV series. The 2003-2004 season of C.A.T.S. will air beginning in January 2004 on INSP and syndicated stations representing in total more than 40 million televised homes.

The grand prize winner will receive a national recording contract from the Butterfly Group that is valued at more than $200,000. Contestants may submit entry forms beginning April 1 through June 16 to participate in the competition. The sign-up period will be followed by regional competitions in eight cities during July-August. Regional finalists will compete in televised competitions that will be produced in INSP’s studios in Charlotte, NC. There will be 24 televised programs.

The series host is Clifton Davis (Amen). Davis is best known for his work on television sitcoms and variety shows, but he also is an ordained minister as well as a composer of such hit songs as “Never Can Say Goodbye” by The Jackson Five. Music industry professionals and celebrity judges will judge the contestants.

C.A.T.S.' first season is currently airing on INSP, Saturdays at 9:30PM EST, with the winner, who is awarded a national recording contract, to be chosen on air in May 2003. Contestants may sign up for the 2003-2004 competition at www.insp.com. Rules are posted on the website also. More information is available by calling 704-561-7955.

Available categories include the following: Solo Division - Southern Gospel, Contemporary Male, Contemporary Female, and Traditional/Contemporary Gospel; Group Division - Southern Gospel, Contemporary, Traditional/Contemporary Gospel, and Alternative/Rock. The cost of entry is $100/individual and $150/groups.

Regional competitions will be held in Los Angeles, Tampa, Dallas, St. Louis, Detroit, Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Dates for the cities are to be announced. Last year’s 64 finalists were from all across the country, from California to Texas, from Wisconsin to Florida.