Landing the perfect role in a production of Beauty and the Beast requires more than just acting chops; it demands a powerful vocal performance. Choosing the right audition song can be the difference between a callback and a polite "thank you." This guide explores some top choices for various voice types and skill levels, helping you shine during your audition.
What Makes a Great Beauty and the Beast Audition Song?
Before diving into specific song suggestions, let's establish what makes a strong audition piece for this iconic musical. Your selection should:
- Showcase your vocal range and abilities: Choose a song that allows you to demonstrate your high notes, low notes, and overall vocal control.
- Highlight your acting skills: The song should provide opportunities to portray emotion and character. Beauty and the Beast is full of heart, so ensure your selection allows for emotional expression.
- Be appropriate for the character: Consider the character you're auditioning for (Belle, Beast, Gaston, etc.) and choose a song that reflects their personality and storyline.
- Be well-known (but not overdone): While familiarity can be an advantage, avoid songs everyone else is singing. A slightly less common but equally effective choice can make you stand out.
Popular Choices for Belle
Belle's character requires a strong, yet delicate voice capable of expressing both vulnerability and strength. Consider these options:
- "Home" (from Beauty and the Beast): A classic, yet still effective choice. It showcases a wide range and allows for emotional depth. However, be prepared for the competition!
- "On My Own" (from Les Miserables): This power ballad allows you to demonstrate control and vulnerability, demonstrating a similar emotional range to Belle.
- "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" (from Phantom of the Opera): This song showcases a beautiful, soaring soprano voice, and its longing perfectly aligns with Belle's yearning for something more.
- "Part of Your World" (from The Little Mermaid): While from a different Disney musical, its themes of longing and self-discovery resonate deeply with Belle's journey.
What if I'm auditioning for a younger Belle?
For younger Belles, consider songs like:
- "When She Loved Me" (from Toy Story 2): A beautiful and emotionally resonant ballad that conveys innocence and vulnerability.
Songs for the Beast
The Beast’s vocal range and power need to mirror his transformation from a monstrous exterior to a gentle soul within. Suitable selections often feature a blend of power and vulnerability.
- "If I Can Dream" (from Elvis Presley): A powerful and emotional ballad that conveys longing and hope. It requires a strong voice with good control.
- "The Prayer" (Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli): This powerful duet (which can be adapted for a solo performance) explores themes of love, hope, and redemption—all central to the Beast's character arc.
- Songs from Les Miserables: Consider songs that depict struggle, remorse, or redemption.
Suitable Songs for Gaston
Gaston's boisterous personality calls for a strong, confident voice with a touch of arrogance.
- "Go the Distance" (from Hercules): A high-energy anthem that captures Gaston’s bravado and ambition.
- "King of New York" (from Newsies): This song allows for a strong, powerful vocal display with bold and arrogant undertones.
- Something from a rock musical: If you're comfortable with rock, a powerful song from a rock musical can showcase a different side of Gaston’s personality.
What about other characters?
For other characters, consider songs that reflect their personalities and the emotions they express throughout the musical. The key is to choose a piece that lets your personality shine through and demonstrates your range and acting ability.
Beyond the Song Choice
Remember, song selection is only one piece of the puzzle. Ensure your audition also includes:
- A strong performance: Practice your song until you know it flawlessly, and work on your acting and character portrayal.
- Appropriate attire: Dress in a way that's appropriate for the character you're auditioning for and the style of the musical.
- A prepared introduction: Be ready to introduce yourself and state the song you’ll be performing.
By selecting a song that complements your voice and acting skills, while also fitting the character's personality, you'll significantly increase your chances of success in your Beauty and the Beast audition. Good luck!
