Finding Musical Theatre
Audition Songs
Finding the perfect musical theatre audition song can be daunting, and the time spent looking takes away from preparing the material. Here’s a quick guide to help you find better audition song choices.
Step 1
The first step is to find all of the other shows written by the composer from the show you are auditioning for. It will most likely have a similarity in musicality to the show/character you are auditioning for. Try to find one of their lesser known or projects that failed to make it to broadway so there is less of a chance that someone else comes in with the same song. If this approach doesn’t yield results, find another composer with a similar style and use one of theirs.
Step 2
The second step is to find a show where the character has a similar plot/emotional journey. Their key songs often feel like they fit in the show you are auditioning for. If your role is about being the other woman for instance, there are other shows where the character is in the same situation and this can flat out telegraph that you are right for the role you’re auditioning for.
Step 3
What is/are the main song(s) your character sings in the show? What is the musical style, range and essence. Remember, you are trying to find something that shows you are perfect for the role, part of that is your ability to know what skills need to be shown in order to get that part. Don’t try to show extended range if the character you are going for doesn’t need that. I often find folks trying to show off a bunch of things that don’t matter and clutter up the situation.