NZ Idol contracts defended

LAST WEEK'S LEGAL ANSWER ON THE CONTRACT NEW ZEALAND IDOL CONTESTANTS SIGN TO TAKE PART IN THE TV SHOW DREW THIS RESPONSE FROM THE PROGRAMME MAKERS:

I was interested to read the article titled Restraints of Idol published in Monday's Workplace section (April 19) of the New Zealand Herald.

The contract you refer to was provided to each contestant prior to signature. Any contestant who was unhappy with these conditions could choose not to sign and therefore cease any further participation in the programme.

We believe that the conditions are entirely reasonable in that they protect the programme and the international Idol brand from unauthorised exploitation during and immediately after the series broadcasts.

With regard to consideration, the opportunity to go into the final 24 and certainly the top 10 of NZ Idol is a significant opportunity. I am sure many would agree that getting into the final stages of NZ Idol is worth a lot to an aspiring performer.

The producers need to ensure that the rights of the owners and licensees of the programme, the format and associated intellectual property are protected.

A number of weeks ago, we advised the final 60 contestants who did not make it to the final 10 that we would be relaxing the rules to permit them to continue to use their considerable performing skills.

A number of contestants have contacted us with requests to undertake certain activities and in most cases we have happily consented - and in some cases, provided practical support.

We believe our contract provides the protection we require, while providing the participants with the opportunity to advance their performing careers.

Andrew Shaw,

Chief operating officer and executive producer,

New Zealand Idol.