American Idol Registration Begins Wednesday

Ready to belt out some “Edge of Glory” or do you have that “Proud Mary” shimmy down to a science? American Idol auditions return Friday at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center. Here are five things you need to know:

1. No Camping Out. Producers will begin registering contestants at 7 a.m. Wednesday and again Thursday. You get a wrist band and a seat ticket and you go home. Auditions will begin early Friday morning.

2. Big Crowds. No Surprise. It has been four years since American Idol visited Charleston in the hunt for contestants. An estimated 8,000 people showed up to audition in the Lowcountry in 2007. You can expect big crowds again this year — we’re the only city in the Southeast for this round of the competition.

3. No Autographs. The first round audition is with the show's producers. A second round will be scheduled later this year for successful contestants to sing in front of the show's judges.

4. There are Rules. Before you go, check out the frequently asked questions at the Idol website because there is some need-to-know information. For example, you need a couple forms of ID and, if someone is coming with you Friday, they also have to be there when you register Wednesday or Thursday.

5. Good luck. And let us know if you're auditioning. We'd love to highlight local vocalists as they make their way through the week. Email greg.hambrick@patch.com.