The Best Audition Songs for Godspell (By Character)

“Morning Has Broken” by Cat Stevens – A gentle, uplifting song that captures a sense of new beginnings and gratitude, akin to Jesus’s teachings.
“Teach Your Children” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – Focuses on guidance and learning, resonating with Jesus’s role as a teacher.
“Let It Be” by The Beatles – Offers a message of acceptance and peace, suitable for the character of Jesus.
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel – Emphasizes support and comfort, reflecting Jesus’s role as a caretaker.
“Simple Song of Freedom” by Bobby Darin – Captures the call for peace and understanding, fitting for Jesus’s messages.
“People Get Ready” by The Impressions – A song about hope and redemption, aligning well with the themes Jesus promotes.
“Love the One You’re With” by Stephen Stills – While more secular, this song’s emphasis on love and community spirit is in line with Jesus’s teachings.

or for options from musicals:

“All Good Gifts” from Pippin (Stephen Schwartz) – This song has a spiritual and grateful tone, perfect for Jesus.
“Day by Day” from Pippin (Stephen Schwartz) – While both this and the previous song are from Godspell, they’re good fits for exploring similar roles due to Schwartz’s consistent style.
“No Time at All” from Pippin (Stephen Schwartz) – Offers a philosophical and celebratory look at life, suitable for the character of Jesus.
“Beautiful City” from Pippin (Stephen Schwartz) – A song about rebuilding and hope, ideal for the message of redemption and community.
“Purpose” from Avenue Q (Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx) – While more modern, its themes of finding one’s purpose align well with Jesus’s teachings.
“Corner of the Sky” from Pippin (Stephen Schwartz) – Reflects a quest for meaning and belonging, very much in line with Jesus’s role.
“For Good” from Wicked (Stephen Schwartz) – Emphasizes the transformative impact of relationships, akin to Jesus’s influence on his followers.

“One of Us” by Joan Osborne – Though from a later period, its reflective nature on divinity and humanity suits the dual nature of this character.
“The Times They Are A-Changin'” by Bob Dylan – Fits the transformative message John the Baptist heralds.
“Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones – Provides an interesting contrast for Judas’s complex character.
“Carry On” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – Reflects the resilience and burden carried by John the Baptist/Judas.
“Fire and Rain” by James Taylor – Captures personal struggle and change, reflecting Judas’s internal conflict.
“The Weight” by The Band – Thematically appropriate for Judas’s burden and decisions.
“Hurt” by Johnny Cash – Though originally by Nine Inch Nails and covered later, Cash’s version encapsulates the profound personal pain and regret relevant to Judas.

and for options from musicals:

“Heaven on Their Minds” from Jesus Christ Superstar (Andrew Lloyd Webber) – Captures the conflicted and foreboding perspective of Judas.
“Damned for All Time” from Jesus Christ Superstar (Andrew Lloyd Webber) – Reflects the anguish and betrayal inherent in Judas’s role.
“Gethsemane” from Jesus Christ Superstar (Andrew Lloyd Webber) – A powerful solo that explores deep personal anguish and decision-making.
“Judas’ Death” from Jesus Christ Superstar (Andrew Lloyd Webber) – Portrays the ultimate remorse and tragedy of Judas.
“Pilate’s Dream” from Jesus Christ Superstar (Andrew Lloyd Webber) – Though from Pilate’s perspective, it shares thematic elements of foreboding and fate.
“Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord” from Godspell (Stephen Schwartz) – Perfect for showcasing the dual role of prophet and betrayer.
“What’s the Buzz” from Jesus Christ Superstar (Andrew Lloyd Webber) – Fits the energetic, charismatic aspects of John the Baptist.

“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles – Optimistic and fitting for the hopeful tone of many ensemble scenes.
“With a Little Help from My Friends” by The Beatles – Celebrates community and support, core themes in “Godspell.”
“San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” by Scott McKenzie – Captures the spirit of love and peace, perfect for the ensemble.
“Signs” by Five Man Electrical Band – Reflects on social messages and change, suitable for the vibrant and dynamic ensemble.
“Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum – Although rockier, it has a spiritual layer that aligns well with the show’s themes.
“Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond – A song that encourages unity and participation, great for ensemble interactions.
“America” by Simon & Garfunkel – Explores themes of searching and finding one’s place, akin to the ensemble’s journey in the musical.

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