IDS judges to look for emotion, entertainment!

The judges will look for a good dose of entertainment along with talent and emotion in a performance while judging the dance reality show "India's Dancing Superstar" (IDS), going on air this Saturday.

There are three judges on the show. For actor-producer Ritesh Deshmukh, entertainment is important, while choreographers Geeta Kapur and Ashley Lobo lay stress on talent and emotion.

After two months of audition in 18 cities, 70,000 entries, 70 candidates were shortlisted. Star Plus launched the show here on Tuesday and announced that of the 70 participants, 24 will have a face off to select final 12 contestants who will vie for the top honour. Age is no bar for participation. The launch was hosted by TV actress Khushboo Grewal.

Ritesh, who is making his television debut with the show, said: "I am looking for entertainment. If an act is entertaining enough, I will be happy."

He also said that since he is new to this (judging), he "will also represent a person watching the show from home. I am not a great dancer, but I dance from my heart and I will look out for people who do the same and entertain others."

Kapur and Lobo will focus on the technical aspect of performances. "We are looking for acts that touch you emotionally. It is all about talent at the end of the day, but we want an emotional attachment too," Kapur said.

Lobo, also judging a reality show for the first time, said: "I decided to judge the show because it was the right platform and I think it's the right time for me."

"The show is special to Star Plus. As there is no particular format, you should be a good entertainer to participate here. The show is going to change the definition of dancing in India," Nachiket Pantvaidya, general manager, Star Plus, said at the event.

IDS is a co-production between BBC Worldwide India and Trompe d'oeil Productions.