1. The competition is open to amateurs who are interested in karaoke-singing. It is not for professional singers. An amateur is defined as a singer who is not currently making a full-time income from singing.

2. Anybody over 18 years of age can compete (men and women).

3. Men and women will have their own categories. Unfortunately no duets are allowed.

4. The language used in singing may be chosen freely and competitors can bring their own karaoke discs (manufacturers CD's only, not copies!) of their songs (5 different songs). Maximum length of one song is +/- 5 minutes.

5. The competition will last 3 days and nights and will take place on the cruise ship M.S. Galaxy, travelling from Helsinki - - Estonia - Helsinki. All competitors in the competition must be available to travel between 7th September - 11th September, 2006.

6. The finalist winners will be awarded (five best women and five best men).

7. The winners of the men´s and women´s categories will be THE WORLD CHAMPIONS OF KARAOKE 2006.

8. The jury of the finals will consist of music and singing professionals.

9. To represent Ireland in the Karaoke World Championships, participants must hold a current Irish passport.

SUMMARY OF THE FIVE MAIN JUDGING CRITERIA

1. VOICE SOUND QUALITY
- The quality and individual characteristics of the voice

2. RHYTM & TEMPO
- The voice in relation to the music

3. VOCAL EXPRESSION
- How well the performer is able to express the meaning and mood of the song

4. STAGE PRESENCE
- The physical expression of the song in terms of the overall visual presentation of the performance on stage

5. ENTERTAINMENT VALUE
- The audience´s and judges´ reaction to the overall performance

Any other questions, please email us at info@karaokeireland.net