ABC's new summer reality series 'Rising Star' kicks off nationwide auditions Saturday, March 29

ABC's new series "Rising Star," which opens the gate to a new era in reality competition, kicks off its nationwide search for talent Saturday, March 29. The U.S. series is helmed by executive producers Ken Warwick ("American Idol") and Nicolle Yaron ("The Voice").

Aspiring singers are encouraged to visit www.abc.com/risingstar for more information on the audition process. Solo vocalists, duos and vocal groups (up to five members) can register to audition in person, online or nominate a friend/family member.

"Rising Star" completely reinvents the traditional singing competition as - for the first time ever - the audience has the final say in real time. The show follows a group of aspiring singers as they perform live. During the performances, viewers vote in real time via an app to determine if the singer will advance in the competition. If the voting reaches a certain threshold, the performer moves on. In addition, the performer can see how the voting is going throughout the performance, so the feedback is immediate and dramatic.

"Rising Star" hopefuls can audition in-person in the following cities:

Dallas: March 29

Atlanta: April 1

Chicago: April 8

Nashville: April 11

Los Angeles: April 15

New York: April 24

Boston: April 26

Fans can follow the show on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RisingStarABC, and on Twitter at @RisingStarABC, #RisingStar.