Multiple Bakersfield locals made the trek up to Oakland Sunday for the preliminary round of American Idol auditions in front of show producers.
16-year-old Tenaya Calderon, 24-year-old Natalia Mallory, and 24-year-old Cristian Flores all sang in front of producers in the preliminary round of auditions for the chance to sing in front of the judges in the next round.
"I get a different feeling when I'm singing and I know that's something I need to go after," Natalia Mallory said.
A local college student made the drive this weekend to try out.
"I was thrilled," Cristian Flores said. "I told my best friend 'Hey I really need the moral support'."
Most had to wait hours in line, some grabbing a spot as early as 4 a.m., for the chance to audition. Despite the early call time, everyone was in high spirits.
"It's a four hour drive but it's worth it," Tenaya Calderon said. "It's an opportunity."
"You can't be afraid to follow your dreams." Natalia said.
A new season of American Idol is set to begin at the beginning of 2018 -- this time on ABC.
