Capítulo 363: Chapter 363: A Hard Road for the Small Stage
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ABC TV's preparation for the singing contest made headlines across Japan, drawing significant public interest. Japan, still reeling from the war's aftermath and enduring economic hardship, had never seen such a grand-scale entertainment event.
The newspaper announced that the contest was open to anyone aged 12 to 22, regardless of gender, who believed they could sing well.
**Competition Rules:**
- **First Round:** Auditions determine who will advance to the training camp, which includes board and lodging, along with professional guidance. This provision is crucial, as many are struggling financially, especially those who've found themselves in Tokyo unexpectedly.
- **Second Round:** A trial round where the top 32 will be selected. High performers may secure contracts with Hardy Group Entertainment, a significant opportunity as signing a contract is tantamount to a well-paid job.
- **Third Round:** A knockout phase where the top 32 compete to become one of the final ten artists signed by Hardy Entertainment.
- **Fourth Round:** The finals will determine the top three contestants who will receive strong support from the company to release their personal albums.
Unlike the U.S., where such deals are often discreet, Japan openly lists these conditions, making the competition even more appealing.
Registration is straightforward: participants can register directly at the Tokyo ABC TV office or mail in their registration. The auditions are set to start on June 1 at the Tokyo branch of ABC TV.
Given Japan's sparse entertainment landscape, the TV Plaza's programs have been a welcome diversion. In contrast to the U.S., where few would endure the cold to watch TV, Japanese audiences are eager for any form of entertainment.
Sayuri has been announced as the host of the contest, and it's known that she is now serving Master Hardy. In Japan, there is a certain level of acceptance towards Japanese women in relationships with prominent Americans, similar to the respect shown to Hara Setsuko who served MacArthur.
The program team is now in place, including Sayuri, who has influence in the team's decisions, with guidance from the U.S. Central Station.
On stage, Tony, the American ABC TV station's art director, expressed dissatisfaction with the Japanese contest's rudimentary setup. He insisted on grandeur:
"Everything must be grand," Tony declared. "The auditions need to be crowded, and we should send four filming teams to interview participants. We need at least three groups of audition teachers and highly representative judges. Equipment is lacking; we need twice as much, including more photographers, sound engineers, and lighting engineers."
The local team was taken aback. A director voiced the challenge: "Mr. Tony, your suggestions are excellent, but the Tokyo branch can't meet these requirements quickly."
Tony, frustrated, retorted, "If you're going to do it, do it right. Make sure to get the necessary equipment and staff immediately."
His tone was sharp, reflecting his discrimination against the Japanese and his ambition to enhance his own career standing.
The meeting ended without resolution. The director, unsure of how to handle Tony, decided to seek Hardy's opinion through Sayuri.
"Sayuri, you were at the meeting. What's your take on the disagreement between Tony and the TV station?" the director asked.
Sayuri replied, "Tony's demands are impractical given our current resources. We should stick to the original plan. The current setup will be well-received by Japanese audiences. We can scale up in the future as the station grows."
The director agreed, but emphasized the need to consult Hardy.
Sayuri was surprised to be assigned this task but agreed to approach Hardy.
Upon arriving at Hardy's manor, Sayuri was recognized by the security guard, who reported her presence. Hardy noticed her and gestured for her to join him in the car.
Once inside, Sayuri felt nervous and unsure of what to say. Hardy's direct manner led them to the bedroom where they engaged intimately, leaving Sayuri both physically exhausted and emotionally impacted.
Later, while Sayuri massaged Hardy, they discussed the contest. Hardy asked her opinion on the matter.
Sayuri suggested sticking to the simpler plan, noting it was more practical given the current financial constraints of the TV station.
Hardy agreed with her viewpoint and instructed her to proceed as planned.
The next day, during the TV station's meeting, Tony presented a revised plan but was met with Sayuri's counterpoints. She revealed that Hardy had endorsed her plan, which subdued Tony's objections.
Tony, realizing Hardy's authority, begrudgingly accepted the revised plan. The meeting concluded positively, with Sayuri receiving admiration from her colleagues and a promotion to deputy chief planner.
Despite the challenges, Sayuri found satisfaction in her new role and her relationship with Hardy, reflecting on her experience with a mix of pride and anticipation for the future.
Estado de energía semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Piedra de
Poder