Reality TV series HP Space sees 16 finalists putting their talents and skills to the test.

TEACHER Tan Chung Han has made the country proud by being the first Malaysian to participate in HP Space, a new reality TV show created by Channel [V] in partnership with technology company HP. The 26-year-old signed up for auditions to find his creative identity.

“I am here to prove that teachers, and anyone else who might have a job that isn’t conventionally associated with the term ‘creative’, can exude their creativity in their respective jobs.

Pushing the limits: Reality show finalist Tan Chung Han believes critical thinking and his varied skills will give him the edge over the competition.

“Through the show, I can mingle with creative minds from all over Asia and learn about their cultures, skills, inspirations and pursuits. It is my intention to leverage on all these influences in my personal quest to redefine myself,” said the Klang-born Tan in an e-mail interview.

Brimming with enthusiasm, Tan is set on taking the challenges head on. “I am very excited about what lies ahead. I believe my strength lies in critical thinking and analytical skills.

“My varied skills in the creative field (video production, photography and graphic design) will serve to help me tackle these challenges,” said the confident lad, who cites Mark Burnett’s Survivor as his favourite reality TV show.

HP Space offers Asians a shot at fame and fortune with a RM171,000 (US$50,000) cash prize and a job on the production team of Bubblegum Crisis, a remake of the cult anime classic. The chosen candidates must use HP’s latest, cutting-edge product innovations to battle it out over eight episodes.

“The idea was inspired by HP that wanted to create a reality show focused on creativity. We were excited as it was an opportunity to create Asia’s first original locally developed reality series,” said David Searl, HP Space’s executive producer.

According to Searl, over 2,000 digital auditions were received, whereby applicants had to submit a one-minute video pitch showcasing their creative flair and areas of expertise.

Thirty-six contestants were selected and called for auditions in China, India and Singapore. From there, 16 finalists were chosen from countries like India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Searl explained the series is currently being recorded in Singapore.

“Some of our finalists have never had the opportunity to step out of their hometowns, much less travel abroad and work with others from completely different cultures and backgrounds.

“HP Space will be an adventure that will push them out of their comfort zones, expanding their boundaries of creativity, and changing their lives forever,” he explained.

For the next two months, finalists will take on a new creative challenge each week. Working in teams and armed with cutting-edge product innovations from HP, they will pit their creative skills and talents against each other in the race to emerge champion.

Various creative gurus from different disciplines will mentor and judge the finalists throughout the different stages of the competition.

The two permanent judges – founder of Stikfast figure toys Ban Yinh Jheow and Sean Cummins– creator of The Best Job In The World campaign, will play an important role in the elimination rounds.

TV presenter Paula Malai Ali is the show’s host. This is her first experience hosting a reality TV show.

“I am a big fan of reality TV and being given the opportunity to host the show is a great honour.

“Hosting a reality TV show is a refreshing change as you have the live element and you need to present challenges in real time to get perfect reactions from contestants,” said the English-Malay beauty who was a former VJ on Channel [V].

Paula is convinced the show would be a good watch as it is based on creativity and true talent. “There are a motley crew of contestants with great personalities. Some are quietly creative while others, colourful and creative.

“Contestants will not only be able to showcase their talents and a chance to be moulded by experienced mentors,” said the 35-year-old Bruneian, who hosts motorsport magazine show Engine Block and weekly tennis show, Ace, on ESPN Star Sports.

HP Space premieres tomorrow (8pm) on Channel [V] (Astro channel 714). For details, browse hpspace.com.

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