But, once installed on the set, surprise: several people, adults and children alike, did indeed have their phones. Favoritism? Friends of production? Guest influencers? Still, we learned that an agreement had been reached with some of them, but without official confirmation.
As VIP guests, we were entitled to a dedicated entrance, a different cloakroom and above all to a small glass of champagne and some appetizers before joining the set. The spectators in the pit were already in place, standing in front of the stage. As for us, we took our places on the platforms. No backrests, no cushions: in short, the comfort was Spartan. But it is true that we did not have to spend seven hours on our feet, like those in the pit.
How recording works
Before the recording began, the room attendant came to explain to us how the evening would unfold. And if you are still wondering: no, the prime is not broadcast live (at least, at the beginning), it starts with a slight delay, so as to allow the production to carry out the edits until the return live at the end of the show, and also to avoid technical hiccups… You will understand by continuing to read this article.
On site, the experience was very different from what we see on television. We witnessed the relaxed arrival of teachers, tutors and the sports instructor, who returned to their posts while greeting the crowd. Then, the candidates, the guests and Nikos Aliagas came to greet us in turn, before the recording began.
The first performances were those of the guests – who we see in the second part of the broadcast on television. For those who were wondering if the singers stayed that late on set, the answer is… no. We thus discovered the pianist Khatia Buniatishvili, followed by Kendji Girac and Claudio Capéo. The latter, for his part, had to redo his song T’en aller (here comes the first hiccup). Yes, because the one you saw on screen was actually a second take. And his reaction, apparently surprised, when receiving his reward for his 1,500,000 albums sold in eight years? Again, it was a second take. Claudio Capéo is not only a good singer, but also a good actor!
Finally, it is important to note that most tapes broadcast on television are not visible to the audience on site, with the exception of a few such as the Star Ac Mix.
What you didn’t see on screen
A particularly funny moment, which we don’t see on television, marked the evening. During Franck’s poignant interpretation of Jacques Brel’s Ne moi pas, everyone – stars and academics – had to quickly put on a Les Enfoirés t-shirt. But no luck for Kad Merad: his t-shirt was much too tight. He finally knew how to put it on thanks to the help of Kendji Girac. Result ? The singer of If Only, Kad Merad and Claudio Capeo burst into uncontrollable laughter… which lasted almost the entire duration of the performance!
Meanwhile, in complete contrast, the drama teacher – who initiated Franck’s challenge – was in tears. This big gap in emotions, between fits of laughter and tears, made the public react a lot.
But the highlight of the show was when after the performance, Nikos Aliagas asked the guests’ opinions. Kendji Girac started: “The way he covers Brel is exceptional. He is an actor and singer.” Kad Merad, searching for words, ended up saying: “I’m amazed, it’s magnificent, especially since it’s a very difficult song.” In the audience behind us, a burst of laughter was immediately heard.
Between two sequences: confetti, makeup and natural Nikos
During each break, the teachers had their hair and makeup touched up. But what struck us the most was the confetti. You know, the ones you see flying around on screen during performances. Once the sequence is complete, they are blown… straight into the pit! Suffice to say that if you dream of being as close as possible to the artists, you will have to accept ending up covered in glitter.
As spectators, we were also able to observe the changes of scenery, the placements of the dancers and the candidates. During these moments, Nikos Aliagas, true to his image, took the time to chat and joke with the public, the teachers and even to take… selfies!
A long, very long evening!
Although we entered the studio at 6:30 p.m., we didn’t leave until… 1:30 a.m. Yes, seven hours later! And believe us, it was long. Very long.
Between waiting for the return to live for the announcement of the eliminated and the applause to be repeated for performances already recorded at the start of the evening, our patience was severely tested.
Fortunately, the driver knew how to maintain the atmosphere, not hesitating to dive into the pit to find amateur singers. If some turned out to be, let’s say… bad, it’s hard to put it otherwise, others, like a young woman covering Voilà by Barbara Pravi, impressed everyone. Invited to go on set, she was even greeted by the director and teachers.
And while we thought we could leave after the first part, or at least that it would be quicker for us, it didn’t happen. We had to stay to watch the already recorded performances on screen and… applaud again. Faced with a tired audience, the work of the theater driver was particularly difficult.
So you have been warned. Attending a Star Academy bonus is a unique experience, certainly, but also very trying! And what we see on TV is only a small part of what happens behind the scenes. But to experience it from the inside, it’s better to be prepared… and patient!
And the sound in all this?
In recent weeks, many Internet users have complained about sound problems in front of their television. After having the experience on set, we can confirm one thing: the sound is impeccable in the studio. Despite the applause and the music, the voices of the academicians, Nikos Aliagas and the guests were perfectly audible.
Related News :