SINGING IN AUDITIONS

SINGING FOR DRAMA SCHOOL AUDITIONS

Unless you are auditioning for a Musical Theatre course, they will just be wanting to see that your voice is OK and that you can hold a tune. For Musical Theatre courses obviously they are also looking more closely at your vocal quality, but whatever the type of audition, If you have a song you like, that suits you and you have done some prep and can deliver it well – then so much the better.

Make sure you follow ALL instructions on your interview letter. They may specify more than one song, or a certain time length, or style, or period. Choose songs that suit your voice and personality. Perform them well but don’t be out and out showy. They are not interested in your dance moves or your ability to do the splits. However they WILL be looking to see how you deliver a song in terms of character so choose a piece which gives you that opportunity. Many current pop songs do not! Find a song that tells a story or involves clear emotions. Its fine to physicalise a song but make your moves be part of the story telling, not just dance steps.

On a non Musical Theatre course, the ability to "sell" a song will be much more important than the actual quality of your voice, so don't worry if you think you are mediocre singer. Even on Musical Theatre courses they are looking for much more than just a pretty voice. As with your acting pieces, DO NOT APOLOGISE for your performance!

Use a song as another chance to show off your acting ability. Think of it as another piece. Indeed, it can be helpful to practice the lyrics of your song as a monologue without music. If you can, choose a song which contrasts emotionally with your acting pieces to show off another style.

Find out if your song will be accompanied in the audition. If it will, make sure you have the music, in the correct key and marked up with any cuts you do. If you have to sing unaccompanied, faster songs often work better than ballads with big gaps. Bear this in mind when choosing a song. If singing unaccompanied, work out which key you need to start in so you don't let nerves get the better of you and start too high or low!

And make sure you've warmed up your voice somewhere before going into the audition.