The view from the 'Idol' audience

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The lobby is energized as the audience slowly tromps in through security. Some folks immediately line up to purchase merchandise. The Adam Lambert T-shirts — no metal studs, just black lettering — seem to be selling at a slightly brisker pace than Kris Allen's garb.

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Stars: They're just like "Idol" fans! Debra Messing and two young boys (one looks to be 5-year-old son Roman) frantically shuffle into the concession line for a snack before heading inside to their seats.

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Sixth season runner-up Blake Lewis is mobbed by fans in the lobby. He stays to sign autographs and pose for photos even as the lobby lights flash, beckoning for the crowd to take their seats.