Among the finalists are Joanna Pacitti, who was chosen to star in the 20th anniversary revival of Annie, only to be dismissed from the show before the production reached Broadway after a few months on the road; and Adam Lambert, who was part of the cast of the Los Angeles production of Wicked.

Pacitti was previously signed to A&M records, and her debut recording was titled "This Crazy Life." In addition to Wicked, Lambert has also been seen onstage in The Ten Commandments.

Lambert, Pacitti and 34 other young singers will now vie in weekly competitions for the title of "American Idol."

Among the many "American Idol" finalists and/or winners who have appeared on Broadway are Fantasia, Diana DeGarmo, Tamyra Gray, Constantine Maroulis, Frenchie Davis, Clay Aiken and Taylor Hicks.