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I really like to act and the auditions for the school play are in december. I do a lot of acting outside of school. I have been acting ever since 1st grade. At the moment I am taking 2 theatre classes. But last year I didn't get into the school play. I was actually crying. I knew I could do it but I didn't. The problem is, I can't sing and the play is always a musical. When I act in front of people it's a peice of cake but when I sing I just can't do it. I really want to be in this play! Any advice? I'll rate a 5 if the advice is helpful.

If you can't sing, than there is no way that you'll get into this musical. You might want to try a voice teacher, but if you don't have the money or time, here are some tips:


1. If you can't sing, there is almost always a low-ranged character. Go for a character that sings in a normal voice, rather than up high. People who are new to singing generally find it much easier to start off in a normal voice, because it takes a while to build up a head voice if you're not used to it.

2. Don't make the mistake that many beginners make by trying to lilt the voice to sound like a pop star/rock star/whatever and/or pushing your voice. First, it sounds horrible and is bad for your voice, and the casting director will cringe. Trust me on this, this is such a peeve for casting directors that they will just say "Okaaaaay, you can just be an extra." It might sound good to you, but the rest of the world will cover their ears. There's a complete different kind of music for that, and that kind of music will never be in a musical. Second, it makes it way easier to get out of tune.

3. Breathing is key. Before you sing a phrase, take a deep breath. Your ribcage should expand, and don't let your shoulders rise. A breath should be secret. Don't let the world know that you're taking a breath.

4. As long as you stay in tune, rhythm and volume, and have lots of expression, you won't do too bad.

5. For your audition song, choose an upbeat song with short phrases. It takes lots of technique to sing long, smooth legato phrases in a normal voice. The song "Buenos Aires" from EVITA is a perfect choice. It's not too hard, very lively and upbeat, low and makes you sound better than you actually are. You can get it on the EVITA soundtrack, the one with Patti LuPone or Madonna.

6. Sell the piece! Your goal is to enchant your audience. Even if you have a terrible voice, a smile and an outstanding acting job will make up for it. Make the audience want to watch you. SHOW OFF.

The 4 most overdone songs that you want to avoid because the director will cringe:

1. "On My Own" from Les Miserables

2. "The Music of the Night" from The Phantom of the Opera (It used to be great, but it's sung by so many sleazy pop stars that it's lost its magic. It's only good when sung by the Phantom and the Phantom alone, or Sarah Brightman)

3. "Think of Me" from The Phantom of the Opera
4. "Don't Cry For Me, Argentina" from EVITA. Beautiful, but too common. EVERYONE does that song. Directors won't cringe, but it definitely will not make much of an impression.



Best of luck with your audition!!! It would be much more helpful if you could tell us what this musical is, and I can look it up for you and help you better.

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