• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, August 9, 2006

NBC doesn't give up. Like other networks, it's failed to launch a talent competition with "American Idol" appeal. But it's trying again. The network plans a midseason show where voters can select the two lead performers for a new Broadway production of "Grease."

Called "You're the One That We Want," the show has British roots like "Idol." It's modeled after a current BBC competition "How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?" where the winner will play Maria in a London production of "The Sound of Music."

That version, backed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, has encouraged NBC to bring it to the U.S. A BBC unit is producing the American version. Details on the NBC format have not been determined.

In the U.S., voters will select the two leads--"Danny" and "Sandy"--who will take the stage when the new "Grease" production opens in June.

Several major Broadway producers are behind "Grease," and their willingness to cast the winners of the NBC show indicates their hopes for a publicity boost. In the UK, Webber will orchestrate "The Sound of Music" production with the winner.

Judges on the NBC talent search for a singer/actor/dancer include a co-creator of "Grease," Kathleen Marshall, a Broadway director/choreographer, and David Ian, a well-known theater producer.

"We've got judges with the best credentials and with a huge investment in the success on Broadway," says Wayne Garvie, director of content and production at BBC Worldwide.