Michael Bolton to host Subaru’s ‘Asian Dream’ musical tilt

SUBARU distributor in Southeast Asia and other markets, Motor Image, announced Grammy award winner Michael Bolton will return to Asia for the first season of “Asian Dream,” a new reality talent search. Bolton, together with Subaru, intend to draw attention to emerging musical talents across the region.

Motor Image explained “Asian Dream” is a seven-episode series. It has already scouted six aspiring singers from Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Each week, contestants will be given a specific task designed to sharpen their skills, and they must compete to save their place in the challenge round. They will be coached, mentored and judged by Bolton and other special guests. One contestant will be eliminated each week starting from Episode 2.

The winner of “Asian Dream Season 1” will be named a Subaru Ambassador and will join Bolton on the “Asian Dream” tour.

“Subaru is pleased to present ‘Asian Dream’ and provide a valuable opportunity for talented and confident individuals who have the courage to follow their hearts and pursue their dreams. The show will be an excellent showcase for these aspiring talents who display grit, perseverance and commitment — traits that resonate with the Subaru brand. I look forward to seeing them conquer their fears and rise to the challenge on this regional platform,” said Glenn Tan, creator of “Asian Dream” and also deputy chairman and managing director of Tan Chong International Ltd., which distributes Subaru cars through its wholly owned subsidiary Motor Image.

For his part, Bolton said; “I am incredibly excited to be partnering with Subaru with the hope of finding the best and brightest performers in the region and making their ‘Asian Dream’ come true.”

Motor Image said Filipina singer and actress Morissette Amon will be resident mentor on “Asian Dream” and will help “shape” contestants to become more versatile, well-rounded performers. Other guest judges and mentors include singer Sara Wee, actress Tan Kheng Hua and choreographer Alif Archo of Singapore; singer and Subaru Ambassador Mild Nawin and singer and actress Jannine Weigel of Thailand; fashion photographer Yu Tsai of the US; musician Thanh Bui of Vietnam; and singer and actress Ho Ngoc Ha of Vietnam.

Motor Image said it “remains committed to grooming talents who embody Subaru’s values of being confident, sleek and passionate.” It noted the company had sponsored “Asia’s Next Top Model” and “Bolt of Talent.” This year, Motor Image said it has taken on “a more decisive role in the conceptualization, production and promotion of lifestyle content.”

“Asian Dream” is produced by Refinery Media in association with Passion Films. It will premiere in the fourth quarter of 2019.