✅ What Is America’s Got Talent and Why Audition in 2026?
America’s Got Talent (AGT) is one of the biggest talent shows in the world, offering a $1 million prize and a Las Vegas residency. Season 21 is expected to premiere in May 2026, and the auditions will begin in late 2025 or early 2026. If you’re a singer, dancer, magician, or have a unique talent, this is your chance to shine!
📝 AGT 2026 Audition Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you qualify:
- Minimum Age: Must be 18 or older. If under 18, legal guardian consent is mandatory.
- Citizenship/Visa: Must be a U.S. citizen or have legal status (visa or green card) to be in the U.S. during auditions and live shows.
- Employment Restrictions: No close ties to AGT production companies (Fremantle, Syco, etc.) in the last 2 years.
- Public Office: You cannot be a current political candidate or plan to run until 1 year after the show airs.
📅 America’s Got Talent Season 21 Audition Timeline
Audition registration for AGT Season 21 will follow past trends:
- Season 20 Timeline: Virtual auditions began in Dec 2024 – Jan 2025; in-person auditions happened in March 2025.
- Expected Season 21 Auditions: Likely to begin in late 2025 with virtual and in-person open calls.
👉 Tip: Regularly check the official site AGT Auditions and follow @AGT on social media for updates
🎥 How to Apply for America’s Got Talent 2026
There are 3 ways to apply:
1. Online Video Auditions
- Upload a 90-second video of your act on the AGT audition website.
- Fill out the application form with your bio and act description.
2. In-Person Auditions
- AGT often holds open calls in major cities (e.g., Pasadena Civic Center).
- Perform live for producers.
3. Virtual Open Calls
- Schedule a time slot for a live audition via webcam.
✔️ Pro Tip: Double-check your eligibility and prepare required documents before submission.🎯 How to Prepare for Your AGT Audition
Maximize your chances with these steps:
- Know the Rules: You get only 90 seconds to impress.
- Choose Wisely: Pick a standout act (music, dance, magic, comedy, etc.).
- Polish Your Act: Rehearse and fine-tune your performance.
- Stage Presence: Confidence and authenticity are crucial.
- Tell Your Story: Judges love emotional, personal backstories.
🚫 Avoid These Mistakes:
- Exceeding the time limit
- Being too complicated or hard to follow
- Lacking personality or passion
🎬 How to Record a Winning AGT Audition Video
Your video submission is your first impression. Make it count!
🔧 Technical Tips:
- Use bright lighting and clean audio.
- Film in a quiet, clutter-free area.
📋 Format:
- Intro (10–15 sec): Name, location, and what you’ll perform.
- Performance (90 sec): Your best work.
- Outro: Quick thank you or signature move.
🎭 Dress smartly to reflect your act’s tone and keep it family-friendly.
📌 Final Tips for AGT 2026 Auditions
- ✅ Check the AGT Audition site regularly
- ✅ Prepare a short, high-impact act
- ✅ Record a high-quality video
- ✅ Tell your story authentically
- ✅ Stay within the 90-second limit
How to Prepare for Auditions?
Preparation is key to standing out in AGT auditions. Follow these tips:
- Understand the Format: Each act has 90 seconds to impress the judges (Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, Mel B for Season 20; Season 21 judges TBD).
- Choose a Unique Act: Select a performance that showcases your talent and sets you apart, whether it’s singing, dancing, comedy, magic, or a novel act like ventriloquism.
- Practice Extensively: Rehearse your act to ensure it’s polished, timed, and impactful within the 90-second limit.
- Develop Stage Presence: Confidence and charisma are critical. Engage the audience and judges with energy and authenticity.
- Share Your Story: A compelling backstory can make your act memorable. Be ready to share why your talent matters to you.
- Avoid Common Mistakes:
- Overcomplicating your act, making it hard to follow.
- Exceeding the 90-second limit.
- Lacking authenticity—judges value genuine passion.
🎬 How to Record a Winning AGT Audition Video
For online submissions, your audition clip is your first impression. Here’s how to make it stand out:
- Technical Quality:
- Use good lighting to ensure your performance is clearly visible.
- Record with clear audio to capture your act accurately.
- Film in a distraction-free environment.
- Content Structure:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and your act (10-15 seconds).
- Performance: Showcase your talent within the 90-second limit.
- Closing: End with a thank you or a memorable flourish.
- Additional Tips:
- Dress appropriately to reflect your act’s style.
- Ensure the act is family-friendly, as AGT is a family show.
- Review past AGT audition clips on the official AGT YouTube channel for inspiration.
Sample AGT Audition Intros (By Act Type)
Your introduction sets the tone for your performance. Tailor it to your act type to engage the judges:
- Singer:
- “Hello, I’m [Name], and music is my heart. Today, I’ll sing [Song Title] by [Artist], a song that means everything to me.”
- Dancer:
- “Hi judges, I’m [Name], and dance tells my story. Watch my [Dance Style] routine to [Music], inspired by my journey.”
- Comedian:
- “Hey there! I’m [Name], here to make you laugh. Get ready for jokes that might just brighten your day.”
- Magician:
- “Good evening, I’m [Name], and I’ll amaze you with a magical trick. Watch closely as I make the impossible happen.”
- Unique Act (e.g., Ventriloquist, Dog Act, Aerialist):
- “Hello, I’m [Name], with a one-of-a-kind talent. You’re about to see [Brief Act Description] that you won’t forget.”
Most Memorable and Unique Intros Ever on AGT Auditions
The introduction is your chance to grab the judges’ attention and set the stage for a memorable performance. Below are some of the most iconic and unique intros from AGT history, drawn from standout auditions across seasons, to inspire Season 21 hopefuls:
Kodi Lee (Season 14, 2019):
- Intro: “Hi, my name is Kodi Lee. I’m 22 years old. I’m blind and autistic, and I love music.”
- Why It Stood Out: Kodi’s mother, Tina, introduced him alongside his heartfelt self-introduction, sharing his challenges and passion. His vulnerability and authenticity instantly connected with judges, setting up his Golden Buzzer-winning piano and vocal performance of “A Song for You.”
- Lesson: Share a personal story briefly to build an emotional connection before performing.
Courtney Hadwin (Season 13, 2018):
- Intro: “Um, hi, my name’s Courtney, I’m 13, and I’m a bit nervous, but I’m here to sing.”
- Why It Stood Out: Courtney’s shy, understated intro contrasted with her explosive performance of “Hard to Handle,” surprising judges with her Janis Joplin-esque energy. The contrast made her act unforgettable.
- Lesson: A simple, authentic intro can amplify the impact of a surprising performance.
Darci Lynne (Season 12, 2017):
- Intro: “Hi, I’m Darci Lynne, I’m 12 years old, and this is my puppet, Petunia. We’re gonna sing for you today.”
- Why It Stood Out: Darci introduced her ventriloquist act with charm, letting her puppet “speak” briefly, which intrigued judges before her stunning performance of “Summertime.” Her playful confidence won a Golden Buzzer.
- Lesson: For unique acts, let your prop or partner shine in the intro to hint at your talent.
Nightbirde (Season 16, 2021):
- Intro: “My name is Nightbirde, I’m 30, and I have cancer. But I’m here to sing a song called ‘It’s OK,’ which is about my journey.”
- Why It Stood Out: Nightbirde’s candid mention of her cancer battle, paired with a positive outlook, created an emotional hook. Her original song and radiant energy earned a Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell.
- Lesson: Share a powerful personal challenge with resilience to inspire judges and audiences.
Tape Face (Season 11, 2016)
- Intro: (Silent, with exaggerated mime gestures and a nod to the judges.)
- Why It Stood Out: Tape Face, a mime comedian, used no words, relying on quirky gestures and his signature taped mouth to introduce his act. His silence built intrigue, leading to a hilarious prop-based performance.
- Lesson: For non-verbal acts, use creative physicality to make your intro memorable.
🧪 5 Unique & New Act Ideas for AGT 2026
AGT thrives on originality, and while the show has seen a wide range of acts—from singing dogs to danger acts—there’s always room for fresh ideas. Below are innovative act concepts that haven’t been prominently featured on AGT, designed to captivate judges and audiences in Season 21:
- Holographic Storytelling:
- Concept: Use portable holographic projectors to create a 90-second narrative combining live performance (e.g., acting or dance) with 3D holographic visuals. For example, a performer could act as a time traveler interacting with holographic historical figures.
- Why It’s Unique: Holograms are rare on AGT, and combining them with live performance creates a futuristic, immersive experience.
- Intro Example: “Hi, I’m [Name], and I’m here to take you on a holographic journey through time. Watch as I bring history to life!”
- Tips: Keep visuals simple to fit the 90-second limit and ensure projectors are reliable.
- Eco-Art Performance:
- Concept: Create a live art piece using sustainable materials (e.g., recycled plastics, organic paints) that transforms into a sculpture or painting, set to music. The act could end with the artwork revealing a message about environmental awareness.
- Why It’s Unique: AGT has had speed painters but not eco-focused art with a social message, appealing to modern audiences.
- Intro Example: “Hello, I’m [Name], and I turn trash into treasure. Watch me create art that speaks for the planet.”
- Tips: Use vibrant colors and a clear message to engage viewers; practice quick assembly for timing.
- Augmented Reality Magic:
- Concept: Perform a magic act using AR glasses or a tablet that the audience sees via a screen, blending physical tricks (e.g., card tricks) with digital illusions (e.g., objects appearing to float in AR space).
- Why It’s Unique: While AGT has seen tech-based magic, AR-specific acts are untapped, offering a cutting-edge twist.
- Intro Example: “Hey judges, I’m [Name], and my magic lives in augmented reality. Get ready to see the impossible!”
- Tips: Ensure AR tech is seamless and practice syncing digital and physical elements.
- Musical Robotics:
- Concept: Design a performance where the contestant conducts or plays alongside small, programmed robots that produce music (e.g., drumming, strumming) using recycled materials or 3D-printed instruments.
- Why It’s Unique: Combines engineering, music, and performance art, distinct from typical instrumental acts.
- Intro Example: “Hi, I’m [Name], and I’ve built musical robots to jam with me. Let’s make some mechanical magic!”
- Tips: Keep robots simple to avoid malfunctions and focus on a catchy rhythm.
- Sensory Synesthesia Act:
- Concept: Create a performance that translates one sense into another, like visualizing music as live-painted colors or turning scents into sound patterns using tech (e.g., MIDI controllers triggered by scent release). For example, a performer could “paint” a song’s melody in real-time.
- Why It’s Unique: Synesthesia-inspired acts are rare and offer a multi-sensory experience that’s both artistic and scientific.
- Intro Example: “Hello, I’m [Name], and I see music in colors. Watch me paint [Song Title] as I hear it.”
- Tips: Use bold visuals or sounds and explain the concept briefly to avoid confusion.
Can I audition with an act that requires significant setup time, like a large prop or tech equipment?
Answer: Yes, but you must keep setup and performance within the 90-second limit for initial auditions. Notify producers in advance via the application form about any special requirements (e.g., holographic projectors, robotics). For in-person or Judges’ Auditions, limited setup assistance may be provided, but simplicity is key to avoid technical issues. Practice quick assembly to stay within time constraints.
How do judges react to acts that push the boundaries of family-friendly content?
Answer: AGT is a family show, so acts must be suitable for all ages. Edgy humor or suggestive content risks rejection or negative judge feedback, as seen in past seasons with acts like Sethward’s quirky performances. Focus on creativity over shock value. If unsure, contact producers at AGT Auditions to clarify content appropriateness before auditioning.
What if my act relies on audience interaction, but I’m submitting a video audition?
Answer: For video auditions, simulate audience interaction by addressing the camera as if it’s the audience or using a small group of friends/family to react. Explain your act’s interactive nature in the intro (e.g., “This is how I’d engage a live crowd”). Producers understand video limitations and prioritize your talent and charisma. If advanced to Judges’ Auditions, you’ll have a live audience to engage.
Are there advantages to auditioning virtually versus in-person for Season 21?
Answer: Both have benefits. Virtual auditions offer convenience, no travel costs, and a controlled environment to perfect your video. In-person auditions allow direct producer feedback and the energy of a live setting, which can showcase stage presence. Neither is favored for selection; producers evaluate talent equally. Choose based on your act’s needs and accessibility, ensuring your 90-second performance shines.
Can I incorporate a social cause into my act without it feeling forced?
Answer: Yes, if it’s authentic to your story or act, like the eco-art performance idea above. For example, Nightbirde (Season 16) wove her cancer journey into her song naturally. Judges appreciate genuine passion but may criticize if the cause feels like a gimmick. Tie the cause to your performance (e.g., recycled materials for art) and mention it briefly in your intro to maintain focus on your talent.
What Judges Look For?
Judges evaluate acts based on several criteria:
- Exceptional Talent: Your act must be outstanding in its category, whether it’s technical skill or creativity.
- Emotional Connection: A personal story or emotional performance can make your act more relatable and memorable.
- Entertainment Value: Acts should captivate and engage both the live audience and viewers at home.
- Originality: Bring a fresh perspective or a unique twist to stand out from other performers.
- Stage Presence: Confidence, charisma, and audience engagement are essential.
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Talent | Demonstrates high skill or creativity in your act. |
| Emotional Connection | Shares a relatable story or evokes emotion through performance. |
| Entertainment Value | Engages and captivates the audience, leaving a lasting impression. |
| Originality | Offers a unique act or a fresh take on a familiar talent. |
| Stage Presence | Exudes confidence, charisma, and strong audience interaction. |
Conclusion
Aspiring contestants should start preparing their 90-second act now, focusing on originality, polish, and personal storytelling. Draw inspiration from iconic AGT intros like those of Kodi Lee and Nightbirde, and consider innovative acts like holographic storytelling or AR magic to stand out.
Explore the unique FAQs to address specific audition concerns, and regularly check AGT Auditions for Season 21 audition announcements, expected in late 2025 or early 2026. Ensure you meet eligibility requirements to avoid disqualification. AGT is a platform where diverse talents shine, so believe in your abilities and seize this opportunity to become the next AGT champion.
