Acting in Plays, Singing/audition songs

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Question
hi, im trying to find an appropriate song to sing for a cruise ship audition. Its for a variety show and I have a deep strong voice. I am able to use backing tracks. Do you have any suggestions on what i could sing.

Answer
Sorry it took me so long to get back to you.

It sounds like your basic problem is an overwhelming number of possibilities, which is understandable.  Unfortunately, for this very reason, I can't suggest any specific song, but will try to give you some generic advice.

If the song will actually be used in the variety show, go for something upbeat.  Do you know if they are focusing the show on contemporary music, standards or show tunes?  This would help to narrow your search.

Generally speaking, when auditioning for this type of job you want to show them how well you would fit in their venue.  This doesn't necessarily require something impressive, but more something that fits their needs.  Ask them what they're looking for, as far as style and range - most auditioners are more than happy to clarify this, and that can help to lead you to the correct piece.

That being said, don't shy away from challenging pieces either.  While they might not require impressive, impressive doesn't hurt.

I hope this helps.  Break a leg, and let me know how you do!

-- Spyder

Acting in Plays, Singing

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J. Spyder Isaacson

Expertise

Especially the Seattle theatre scene. Seattle is the number two theatre city of the nation, having more theatres than any other city (including Chicago!) except New York. I know the reputations of most of the local theatres, have worked with quite a number of them, and am currently earning the majority of my livelihood through live theatre. Beyond that, I have been a working professional for the past 10 years (after a long career in an unrelated field), have done just about everything in the field, and have done every possible type of theatre. Currently, I am also pursuing a new (and unexpected!) career as an animated film producer. (PLEASE NOTE that I am NOT an expert in music!) ***DO NOT*** ASK ME QUESTIONS REGARDING AUDITION SONGS OR MONOLOGUES - the answers require way too much information to be passed along by the All Experts system.

Experience

I have been an award-winning actor, singer, playwright, director and administrator (on various levels, all categories) for the past 30 years. A large part of my expertise has been with live theatre, although I do have a minor connection to filmed theater. I have done musicals, straight dramas, straight comedies, and experimental theatre.

Organizations
Theatre Puget Sound Magical Mystery Troupe Centerstage Theatre Conservatory Board of Trustees (former) Express-Theatre Northwest (former) Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theater

Publications
Unrelated trade publications

Education/Credentials
B.A. in Theatre Arts, Gonzaga University M.Ed. in Education and Technology, Western Governor's University (in progress)

Awards and Honors
Mutiple awards (ask for specifics), Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival Valley Community Players, Best Supporting Actor

Past/Present Clients
C's Animation Studio Productions, LLC

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