Expert: Wanda Reinholdt - 11/29/2007

Question
Hi, my name is Stacey. Although I'm not in any professional productions, I will soon be auditioning for a one-act play in my drama class that requires singing. I've never had any actual voice lessons, but the student director for this play says my voice is good. I can't hit super high notes, but I'm good at medium ones and going pretty low. I was just wondering -- at auditions, are people always supposed to sing songs from other productions? Because I've been to a few sites looking for songs for musical theatre and they all suggest songs like that. But they also say that it's best to know the production the song comes from, and I never seem to find broadway productions at Blockbuster. Are radio songs fine with most casters? Not modern ones, probably, but what about older ones with actual melodies?

Answer
Hi Stacey.  Thanks for writing.

To find good songs for auditioning for musicals, it is best to look at your local library and/or to talk with a vocal coach asking them for some help from their own library.

It is always wise to know a little bit about the production that you are trying out for.  You at least want to be familiar with the storyline and a little of the content (and this can usually be found online) so that you can make a decision if you are interested at all.

As for actually auditioning with a piece from the musical, you can.  It is a good idea.  But I don't think it is essential.  Choose a song that you like and can sing and do it well.  If you are meant for the role, it will show through your performance.  

Does that help?

Wanda