How to Prepare for An Auditon for a Musical

I love musicals. I remember being in junior high and high school and spending hours with my sister and cousin searching for the perfect audition songs and preparing like our lives depended on it. And while it was super fun, let’s be honest—it was also nerve-wracking.

If you're thinking about auditioning for a musical—or even if you've done several—this guide will walk you through the essentials of how to prepare. From what to bring to finding the right song and nailing your slate, this post is your checklist for musical theatre audition success.

Basics of What to Prepare for a Musical Theatre Audition

Before you even walk into the room, there are some things you’ll want to have locked and ready:

Sheet Music in the Correct Key

• Your music should be printed and clearly marked.

• 16 bars = about a verse.

• 32 bars = verse + chorus.

• Make sure your cut is marked in pencil and easy for the accompanist to read.

Note: Some auditions might ask you to bring a track instead of using live accompaniment—always double-check the audition notice!

Dance Clothes and Shoes

• If there’s a dance call, bring jazz shoes or character shoes.

• If you don’t have those yet, clean tennis shoes are okay—just aim to invest when you can.

• Wear something easy to move in.

Headshot and Resume

• Many community and professional auditions require these. School auditions may not, but it’s good practice to bring them.

• Your headshot doesn’t have to be professionally taken—use your phone in portrait mode with good lighting and a clear background.

• Your resume can include school plays, church choir, even classroom performances if that’s where you're starting!

Other Audition Essentials

Bring:

• Water bottle

• Pencil and notebook

• Anything else that helps you stay focused

And don’t forget to do some research on the show and the production team. Know what roles you're right for and come in with that knowledge—it shows!

Musical Theatre Audition Songs

How to Find Musical Theatre Audition Songs

When choosing your piece:

• Pick a song that fits your vocal range and the style of the show.

• Musicals range widely in tone—Rodgers & Hammerstein is different from Six or Heathers. Make sure your song feels like it belongs in that world.

• Choose something you connect with emotionally. That matters more than impressing with range.

• Avoid super overdone pieces like Popular from Wicked or On My Own from Les Mis—unless you bring something very specific and fresh to them.

Great resources for finding songs:

• The Singer’s Musical Theatre Anthology

• MusicNotes.com

• ContemporaryMusicalTheatre.com

Want more help with song selection?
👉 Download my free Audition Material Guide here

Finding the Right Cut

• Most auditions will ask for:

  • 16 bars (~30 seconds)

  • 32 bars (~60 seconds)

  • Or something "in that ballpark"

• Make sure your cut:

  • Shows vocal and acting range

  • Has a clear beginning and end

  • Is emotionally driven

And remember—mark your cut clearly and practice with your accompanist if possible, or at least with a friend who can give honest feedback.

Preparing Your Slate (Introduction)

A slate is your quick intro. It shows confidence and professionalism.

Example Slate:

“Hi, my name is Katie Zakkak and I will be singing ‘I Cain’t Say No’ from Oklahoma.”

Tips for Slating:

• Practice it out loud so it feels natural.

• Smile, breathe, and make eye contact.

• Say thank you at the end and be ready for questions.

If there’s an accompanist:

• Walk over first.

• Hand them your sheet music and confirm the tempo, start and stop points.

• Then move to center and slate for the panel.

Other Preparations and Considerations

Warm-Up

• Always warm up your voice and body before the audition.

• Include breathing, stretching, and vocal exercises.

Know the Show

• Read the full script if you can.

• Understand the characters and tone.

• Be ready to speak about your character’s objective if asked.

What to Wear

• Simple, clean clothes that help you feel confident.

• If singing and dancing are on the same day, consider layers or a dress with leggings underneath.

Mindset

• Nerves are normal. Try to channel them into character energy.

• Focus on the story and your character’s goal—not just your nerves.

• If you get a callback, be ready to read or sing material from the show.

Final Thoughts

Auditioning can feel like a huge mountain, but preparing well gives you a solid foundation. You’re already doing something brave and exciting by stepping into the room. Own that!

Want more support on your audition journey?
🎁 Download my free Audition Material Guide and join my email list for more audition tips, resources, and updates on all things drama and musical theatre.

Happy auditioning and break a leg!