Idols SA is back but with a twist

For the first time in Idols history, the show is introducing 'The Golden Disc' that is a "get out of jail free card" that allows the judging panel to bump up a contestant to Theatre Week, even if the other judges say no.

"Our judges, who will be in the company of some of South Africa's most famous faces during the different audition tour stops across Mzansi, will all be given the power to use said Golden Disc. However, each judge will hold only one disc in each region, which they can gift a contestant as a pass through to Theatre Week, vetoing any other vote," Idols bosses say.

The first auditions took place in Cape Town with thousands of anonymous faces with stars in their eyes and hope in their hearts pitched at Grand West to sing their hearts out.

And as always the contestants didn't disappoint - good and bad!