Theatre Week is here, and it’s already proving to be a game-changer. This episode introduced the group round, a challenge where contestants were split into boy and girl bands to test not just their vocal abilities but their synergy and stage presence. 

In an exciting twist, former Idol winners and fan favourites Kingdom, Progress, Victory, and Chima returned, not to compete, but to mentor the new contestants. Their presence brought a mix of excitement and nerves to the contestants.

Rehearsals and vocal training kicked off immediately, signalling the start of a tough Theatre Week. While some contestants delivered stunning performances, others struggled to shine. As expected, the tension was palpable. 

There were mixed reactions to the challenge of singing in a group for some contestants, but the mentors and trainers made it easy for them to work together and deliver as a group. They offered guidance and personalised tips to each group and individual contestant. 

Guiding the contestants through the intensity were mentors like Tima Reece, Jazzsari, Anderson, and returning idols Chima, Progress, Victory, Kingdom, and Kelvin, all seasoned performers who understand the pressure of the Idol stage. 

However, the group round wasn’t without challenges. One major hurdle was song selection, as many contestants were unfamiliar with their group songs, making rehearsals even more demanding.

Even with the pressure, there were heartwarming moments. Iyanya, one of the judges, reassured contestant Savvy TG of the promise he made to help with the production of his song, even though Savvy TG was evicted. It was a kind gesture that showed how much the judges believe in the contestants' potential beyond the show. 

Some groups saw two or three members go home, but the final group to perform for the night stood out, and all three members of the group secured their place in the next round. The group had Jkenova, Sapphire Whinnas and Gospoe, and were nicknamed ‘The Nutella Boys’. 

With just 25 contestants left, the journey to crown Nigeria’s next Idol gets even more thrilling, and only the best voices will survive. The next episode would see this number reduce to 10, as only the best of the best who can handle the pressure and demands of superstardom will make it through. 

Catch Nigerian Idol Season 10 every Sunday at 7 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Ch. 151, GOtv Ch. 12) and Africa Magic Family (DStv Ch. 154, GOtv Ch. 2). Stay tuned to the 24/7 Idol Extra channel on DStv Ch. 198 and GOtv Ch. 49 for exclusive behind-the-scenes access and all the musical magic.