Two UA students selected as competitors in chance to win recording time, airplay, shot at record deal next weekend

Two UA students became finalists for airplay and more after singing their hearts out at the Darrin and Wayne Tucson Idol competition ÷ a local version of "American Idol" ÷ to a crowd of over 200 people Friday.

Sutopa Barua, a molecular and cellular biology senior, and Kimberly Henry, a music education senior, competed against eight other semi-finalists from around Tucson at the Doubletree Hotel, 445 S. Alvernon Way, to make it to next weekend's finals.

If either student wins the final competition, where five Tucsonans will compete this Friday, she will get 10 hours of recording time at a local recording studio, airplay on 104.1, roundtrip airfare and accommodation in Los Angeles and a meeting with at least two major recording companies.

"We thought, 'Wouldn't it be cool if Tucson had the same opportunity (as the national show), but with someone local,'" said Greg Curtis, the afternoon disc jockey at 104.1 FM.

Barua and Henry both made it to the finals after singing two songs to the judges, Jim Brady, the owner of the local recording studio, Scott Barker, the executive editor of the Tucson Lifestyles Magazine and "Chester" the listener.

"I was a die-hard fan of the American Idol show and I wanted to be up with them so much," Barua said. "If I got the time (in the studio), I would be the biggest star, the best star."

The show lasted for three-and-a-half hours.

The UA students didn't have dance routines, but they did move to the music as they sang.

The crowd of all ages followed suit, periodically getting up from their chairs, dancing in the aisles of the ballroom and singing.

"It was fun and spirited," said French and anthropology senior Bryce Coughlin.

Henry, who was allowed to compete after one of the semi-finalists was disqualified for not meeting the age requirements, was equally excited about her qualifying for finals.

"I thought I am gonna come out here and do the best I can," Henry said. "I want to share my music with everybody, even if I don't win."

The finals for the contest will be held next Friday at the Doubletree Hotel, time yet to be announced. Admission is free.