Defiant alternative rock groups and musicians in Durban are starting a petition to call for the Idols auditions to return to the city.
Joining the chorus of opposition to the new Idols format is J13, an organisation that represents alternative rock groups and musicians in the Durban region.
J13 spokesperson Garion River said: "We are starting a petition to get the Idols audition venue to return to Durban, as Margate is not an ideal venue."
The reason for this, said River, was that the alternative music community noticed in the last season that the judges had positively acknowledged the talent of rock singers, and there had been a change in their attitude towards "alternative music". Previously, the show had "sidelined" alternative musicians, he said.
"We noticed in the last season some people came in singing the more hardcore rock songs and the judges gave good comments. This was also the case with the last overseas season of the show."
He said local musicians now believed there was a chance for them to make it into the competition, and showcase their talent. With auditions scheduled in Margate, many singers would miss this opportunity.
River explained that many of these musicians were young college students who work in restaurants to supplement their income and don't have the money to travel all the way to Margate to audition.