The Best Audition Songs for Ragtime

Are you gearing up to audition for the mesmerizing and historically rich musical “Ragtime” and looking for the best audition songs for Ragtime? Well, you’re in for a treat, and I’m here to guide you through it. This musical is like a beautiful mosaic of early 20th-century America, where each character’s story is a vibrant piece of the bigger picture. Choosing the right audition song is like picking the perfect thread to weave into this intricate tapestry. It’s not just about showing off your vocal chops; it’s about capturing the soul of these multifaceted characters. From the determined Mother to the passionate Coalhouse, each role in “Ragtime” is a doorway into the past, and the right song is the key. So, let’s dive into some song choices that will not only resonate with the casting directors but also make you feel like you’re already part of this incredible narrative!

The Best Audition Songs for Ragtime

Coalhouse Walker Jr.

1. “Ol’ Man River” from “Show Boat” – Captures the depth and richness of Coalhouse’s character.
2. “This is the Moment” from “Jekyll & Hyde” – Showcases a strong vocal range and emotional intensity.
3. “Let It Sing” from “Violet” – Highlights a soulful voice and a sense of personal journey.
4. “I, Don Quixote” from “Man of La Mancha” – Demonstrates determination and grandeur, fitting for Coalhouse.
5. “King of the World” from “Songs for a New World” – Reflects the themes of struggle and triumph.

Sarah

1. “I’m Here” from “The Color Purple” – Emphasizes strength and resilience, akin to Sarah’s character.
2. “Summertime” from “Porgy and Bess” – Showcases a tender yet powerful vocal quality.
3. “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man” from “Show Boat” – Reflects the deep emotional range suitable for Sarah.
4. “A Change in Me” from “Beauty and the Beast” – A song about personal transformation and growth.
5. “The Impossible Dream (The Quest)” from “Man of La Mancha” – For a dramatic and emotive presentation.

Mother

1. “As If We Never Said Goodbye” from “Sunset Boulevard” – Reflects the depth, maturity, and emotional journey of Mother.
2. “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Misérables” – Captures the sense of longing and reflection that characterizes Mother.
3. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from “Carousel” – A powerful ballad that showcases strength and hope, resonating with Mother’s character.
4. “Tell Me It’s Not True” from “Blood Brothers” – Emphasizes a deep emotional conflict and maternal instinct.
5. “So Big/So Small” from “Dear Evan Hansen” – Highlights the aspect of Mother’s character dealing with family, change, and emotional resilience.

Father

1. “If I Can’t Love Her” from “Beauty and the Beast” – Emphasizes a sense of introspection and realization.
2. “Stars” from “Les Misérables” – Highlights a strong, principled character.
3. “The American Dream” from “Miss Saigon” – Reflects the internal conflicts and desires of Father.
4. “Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)” from “Jesus Christ Superstar” – Showcases emotional depth and vocal power.
5. “Anthem” from “Chess” – A strong, commanding song fitting for Father’s character.

Younger Brother

1. “Giants in the Sky” from “Into the Woods” – Captures his youthful idealism and confusion.
2. “Corner of the Sky” from “Pippin” – Reflects his quest for purpose and identity.
3. “Santa Fe” from “Newsies” – Resonates with his dreams and aspirations.
4. “Unworthy of Your Love” from “Assassins” – For a more intense, obsessive aspect of his character.
5. “Lost in the Wilderness” from “Children of Eden” – Highlights his journey and longing for something more.

Tateh

1. “Anthem” from “Chess” – Emphasizes Tateh’s strong sense of pride and hope.
2. “If I Were a Rich Man” from “Fiddler on the Roof” – Reflects his dreams and struggles as an immigrant.
3. “Tradition” from “Fiddler on the Roof” – Represents his connection to cultural roots and change.
4. “I Am What I Am” from “La Cage aux Folles” – Showcases determination and self-acceptance.
5. “Me and the Sky” from “Come From Away” – Although from a female perspective, it resonates with Tateh’s aspirations and journey.

And there you have it, folks! 🌟 Wrapping up our musical journey, I hope these song suggestions for “Ragtime” have sparked some inspiration. Remember, an audition is more than hitting the right notes – it’s about storytelling, it’s about transporting your audience to another time and place, and most importantly, it’s about making the character your own. So, take these songs, infuse them with your unique flair, and step into that audition room with confidence. Whether you belt out a classic Broadway tune or sway to a soulful melody, let your performance be a homage to the timeless spirit of “Ragtime.” Break a leg, my fellow thespians! May your auditions be as thrilling as the era “Ragtime” brings to life! 🎶🎉