Opinions wanted - audition songs

Hey Ashleigh! I don't know if you remember meeting me, but you were in ANYTHING GOES with my sister Bree last year. So firstly let me congratulate you on your lovely portrayal of Hope Harcourt that I enjoyed very much! Now onto the important stuff!!! In terms of what directors prefer in an auditionee, I believe that depends on what the show they are casting for is. For example, a director probably wouldn't care for a strong belter were they auditioning for, say, something like CAROUSEL, but it would be a different situation if they were directing something like CABARET. So, when it comes to choosing an audition for a particular show, it is good idea to have some notion of what the show is about and what type of singing it entails. Generally in music theatre singing a song from the show you are auditioning for is discouraged, unless the director has clearly asked for just that. For one thing, its a risky move to sing a song for the character you desire to play, as a director may doubt your ability to take direction if you already have ideas on how said character should be played. Its best to find a song similar in tone and style to the musical you are auditioning for, but not from that musical. Good advice is to always check out that composer's body of work to begin with, and move from there. In terms of auditioning for a training course such as WAAPA Cert, which I'm currently studying. In this case you don't have a particular tone or style to conform to, your only regulation is the song or songs show you off at your best. Therefore, if you're a belter, belt. If you are a quieter singer with more range, do your thang. And if you can do both...by all means DO BOTH. Most of the time you will be asked to perform two numbers, and it is incredibly important that these two CONTRAST one another. The WAAPA application form states, "Applicants must be prepared to perform one up-tempo and one ballad song from musical theatre repertoire". I find, however, it is also good to demonstrate contrasting characters and perhaps different eras also, to further demonstrate both your music theatre knowledge and capabilities as a performer. Any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask, Ash. I'm always here to help...and usually in need of something to do...hehe.