The Best Audition Songs for Xanadu (By Character)

Auditioning for Xanadu means stepping into a vibrant, whimsical world that blends Greek mythology with 1980s pop culture, roller disco, and a lot of fun. Each character, from the inspiring Kira to the scheming Melpomene, brings a unique energy and style that’s both comedic and heartfelt. To make your audition shine, it’s essential to choose songs that reflect the upbeat, campy, and dynamic spirit of the show without pulling directly from Xanadu itself. Below, you’ll find curated song suggestions for each character that capture the essence of their roles, drawing from similar musical influences and ensuring your performance stands out in the best way possible.

Kira (Clio)

1. “Magic” – Olivia Newton-John (captures Kira’s ethereal and inspirational qualities)
2. “Hopelessly Devoted to You” – Grease (sweet, earnest, and showcases Kira’s romantic side)
3. “Believe” – Cher (upbeat and embodies Kira’s optimistic spirit)
4. “Somewhere Only We Know” – Keane (reflective and gentle, fitting Kira’s muse-like persona)
5. “I Feel the Earth Move” – Carole King (upbeat and shows Kira’s playful side)
6. “Suddenly I See” – KT Tunstall (empowering and matches Kira’s role as an inspiring muse)
7. “Heaven is a Place on Earth” – Belinda Carlisle (captures the uplifting and dreamy essence of Kira)

Sonny Malone

1. “Your Song” – Elton John (reflects Sonny’s artistic dreams and romantic side)
2. “I’m Still Standing” – Elton John (upbeat and shows resilience, fitting Sonny’s character)
3. “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves (bright, energetic, and captures Sonny’s hopeful attitude)
4. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey (captures Sonny’s determination and optimism)
5. “Go Your Own Way” – Fleetwood Mac (captures the independent and driven spirit of Sonny)
6. “Rocket Man” – Elton John (reflects Sonny’s artistic journey and introspection)
7. “Take on Me” – a-ha (upbeat, 80s vibe that matches Sonny’s dreamer persona)

Danny Maguire

1. “One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)” – Frank Sinatra (reflective and captures Danny’s nostalgia for his artistic past)
2. “Mack the Knife” – Bobby Darin (shows Danny’s showman side with a touch of flair)
3. “New York State of Mind” – Billy Joel (reflective, showing Danny’s connection to his past dreams)
4. “The Way You Look Tonight” – Frank Sinatra (smooth and charismatic, fitting Danny’s older, suave persona)
5. “Uptown Girl” – Billy Joel (captures the mix of nostalgia and longing in Danny’s character)
6. “Feeling Good” – Michael Bublé (assertive and confident, fitting Danny’s business side)
7. “My Way” – Frank Sinatra (captures Danny’s reflection on life and his choices)

Melpomene

1. “Last Midnight” – Into the Woods (powerful, dramatic, and shows Melpomene’s villainous side)
2. “Poor Unfortunate Souls” – The Little Mermaid (captures Melpomene’s cunning and mischievous nature)
3. “When You’re Good to Mama” – Chicago (bold, confident, and captures her commanding presence)
4. “I Put a Spell on You” – Bette Midler (powerful, slightly sinister, fitting Melpomene’s character)
5. “Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered” – Pal Joey (sly, with a mix of charm and cunning)
6. “Sweet Transvestite” – The Rocky Horror Show (flamboyant, bold, and dramatic, fitting her theatricality)
7. “I’m the Greatest Star” – Funny Girl (bold, shows off her need to be in the spotlight)

Calliope

1. “Stepsisters’ Lament” – Cinderella (playful, shows Calliope’s jealousy and comedic side)
2. “What Is This Feeling?” – Wicked (captures her conspiratorial and humorous nature)
3. “Cell Block Tango” – Chicago (bold, dramatic, and captures Calliope’s mischievousness)
4. “My New Philosophy” – You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (upbeat and captures her quirky, conniving personality)
5. “Agony” – Into the Woods (dramatic and slightly over-the-top, fitting Calliope’s theatrical side)
6. “The Worst Pies in London” – Sweeney Todd (fast-paced, humorous, and fits her scheming personality)
7. “Everybody Loves Me” – OneRepublic (captures Calliope’s overconfidence and comedic arrogance)

Thalia, Euterpe, Erato, Terpsichore, Polyhymnia, Urania (Muses)

1. “We Got the Beat” – The Go-Go’s (energetic, capturing the group dynamic and fun of the Muses)
2. “Dancing Queen” – ABBA (upbeat, fun, and perfect for ensemble energy)
3. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper (captures the playful, free-spirited nature of the Muses)
4. “Maniac” – Michael Sembello (energetic, captures the Muses’ lively vibe)
5. “Material Girl” – Madonna (fun, light-hearted, and fitting for the playful ensemble nature of the Muses)
6. “It’s Raining Men” – The Weather Girls (bold, fun, and fits the lively nature of the Muses)
7. “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” – Deniece Williams (upbeat, 80s style, perfect for ensemble numbers)

Selecting the right audition song can make all the difference in showcasing your fit for the colorful and larger-than-life characters of Xanadu. By choosing songs that resonate with the show’s blend of 1980s pop, camp, and mythical charm, you’ll not only demonstrate your vocal abilities but also your understanding of the show’s unique energy. Whether you’re channeling Kira’s ethereal inspiration, Sonny’s artistic dreamer vibe, or Melpomene’s dramatic flair, these song suggestions are designed to help you bring these beloved characters to life. Step into your audition with confidence, let your personality shine, and get ready to roll into the world of Xanadu! Break a leg!

Photo by Kush Dwivedi on Unsplash