Audition song for Mary Poppins?!?!

[etuverson]

Posted: 8/10/15 at 10:59pm

I am a 17 year old girl wanting to audition for the role of Bird Woman in Mary Poppins, and I have no clue what to sing for my audition. I know what you're thinking. You think I'm crazy to be 17 and wanting to audition for Bird Woman. I just love "Feed the Birds" and just the musical in general. My voice teacher suggested to sing Edelweiss from Sound of Music, but when I talked to my theatre teacher about it, he suggested against it, because the only thing this director has seen me in was when I was Maria for my high school's production. I know this is long, thanks for all help in advance!!

[nicnyc]

Posted: 8/11/15 at 3:31am

Hi! I would suggest something that has a similar lullaby feel to it - like "Goodnight My Someone" (from Music Man) or "Tender Shepherd" or "Never Never Land" (both from Peter Pan).  Good luck!

[dramamama611]

Posted: 8/11/15 at 10:14am

Actually, Edelweiss is very similar in sound to Feed the Birds, so I can see your music teacher's point.  You also need to consider your comfort level...do you have enough time to truly learn a new song to rock it or is the audition around the corner and something already familiar to you would do better in the long run.

[Spotlight61]

Posted: 8/11/15 at 11:50am

Rather than limit yourself by selecting a song that shows you in a particular character light, would it not be better to sing a song that shows off your full vocal and acting through song ability?

If you love the show so much, then being a part of it is better than limiting your chances by singing a song that potentially hinders your true performance potential being displayed.

It should also be said that given the character age of the Bird Woman, would you be considered by a director for such a role?

However, if you want them to see you in that light, then why not be bold and actually go all out and convince them that you are able to play that role by singing 'Feed The Birds' in character?

You are given your tender years playing against type. So your choice of song, if not Feed the Birds, needs to show your ability to convincingly play older and wholly against type.

Updated On: 8/12/15 at 11:50 AM

[MDM2015]

Posted: 8/11/15 at 12:22pm

Unless they say don't sing from the show... Sing "feed the birds" and knock it out of the park.  Where a shawl but don't over do it.  The bird woman does not have to be old.  But know many productions have this actor also play Miss Andrew or Ms. Corry.  Know that going in. 

 

 

[maxkko]

Posted: 8/11/15 at 2:11pm

Even if they don't say "Don't sing a song from the show.". NEVER sing a song from the show you're audtioning for. That's a big no-no.