Top 5 Audition Songs from Les Misérables (and Who Should Sing Them)
- Garry Anderson
- 7 days ago
- 6 min read
Whether you're auditioning for a school show, college programme, or local production, there's a reason Les Misérables keeps popping up on audition lists - it's emotional, iconic, and full of powerhouse roles for every voice type.
But choosing the right Les Mis song isn't just about singing the prettiest ballad - it's about finding a piece that matches your vocal strengths, your acting style, and your casting type.
In this post, we're breaking down 5 best Les Misérables audition songs from Les Mis, complete with guidance on who they suit, why they work, and how to make them stand out - plus a few honourable mentions if you want to go off the beaten track.
Ready to storm the barricade (or at least the callback room)? Let's dive in.
Why Les Misérables Still Works for Auditions
Some shows come and go, but Les Misérables has stood the test of time - and for good reason. It's one of the most performed musicals worldwide, and its songs have become a go-to choice for auditioning actors of all ages.
Here's why it still works:
Emotional Range: From heartbreak to defiance, Les Mis lets you show depth, vulnerability, and power - often all in one song.
Character Variety: Whether you're a belter, a baritone, a lyrics soprano, or an ensemble powerhouse, there's a role (and a song) that fits.
Recognisable but Respectable: Directors know the material - and when it's done well, it impresses. Just make sure you bring something fresh to it.
Built for Storytelling: These songs were written to serve character arcs. They're not just about vocal range - they're about intention, emotion, and journey.
If you can deliver a Les Mis song with honesty and nuance, you won't just be showing that you can sing - you'll be showing that you can act.
Quick Tips for Auditioning with Les Misérables Songs
Auditioning with Les Mis material can be powerful - but only if you handle it well. These songs are emotional beasts, and a misstep can quickly turn dramatic into melodramatic.
Here's how to keep your performance polished and audition-ready:
Cut it Smart
Many Les Mis songs have long intros or instrumental sections - which casting panels do not have time for. Make sure your audition cut:
Starts at a clear, engaging moment
Gets to the heart of the emotion quickly
Ends cleanly, without an awkward fade
Don't Overdo It
These songs are already emotionally intense - you don't need to add extra sobs, shaking hands, or tears to get the point across. Let the lyrics do the work. Understated honesty always beats forced drama.
Make It Yours
Even if you're singing something popular like On My Own, what matters is how you make it uniquely yours.
Think about:
Who you are in this moment
What the character wants
Why it matters right now
That personal connection is what will make your version memorable - even if they've heard the song a hundred times before.
Top 5 Les Misérables Audition Songs
There's no shortage of iconic solos in Les Mis, but not every song fits every voice - and not all of them make great audition pieces. The five songs below are versatile, emotionally rich, and audition-friendly, with clear opportunities to show off your vocal and acting chops.
For each on, we'll break down:
What makes it a strong audition song
Who it suits (voice type, age, character type)
Tips for making it your own
Let's start with one of the most recognisable (but still powerful when done right)...
1) "On My Own" - for Altos and Emotional Storytellers
Yes, it's popular. Yes, its been sung a thousand times. But when delivered with sincerity and subtlety, On My Own remains one of the most emotionally effective audition pieces in musical theatre.
Why it works:
It's simple, heartfelt, and doesn't need vocal fireworks to hit hard. The strength of this song lies in its emotional clarity - it's a quiet heartbreak, not a big breakdown. That makes it ideal for actors who can underplay for impact.
Who should sing it:
Altos or mezzo-sopranos
Teen or young adult performers
Performers with strong acting instincts over powerhouse vocals
Audition tip:
Everyone knows this song - so your goal is to make them hear it like it's the first time. Don't copy Lea Salonga. Don't copy Samantha Barks. Strip it back and tell your version of Éponine's story. Keep it small, grounded, and honest.
2) "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" - for Baritenors with Emotional Depth
This mournful ballad, sung by Marius after the barricade falls, is one of the most understated yet devastating songs in Les Mis. It's not about volume - it's about grief, guilt, and quiet devastation.
Why it works:
Unlike many male audition songs, this one doesn't rely on bravado. It's tender, reflective, and deeply human. That gives you a chance to show emotional vulnerability and vocal restraint - a powerful combination when done right.
Who should sing it:
Baritenors or light tenors
Late teens to adult male performers
Actors who can tap into introspection and survivor's guilt
Audition tip:
Focus on stillness. You don't need grand gestures or overly dramatic delivery. Let the weight of the moment carry the song - just you, the words, and what's been lost.
3) "I Dreamed a Dream" - for Altos or Mezzo-Sopranos with Maturity
Possibly the most iconic solo in the entire show, I Dreamed a Dream is raw, broken, and vocally soaring. When sung with authenticity (and not just belted to impress), it's devastatingly effective.
Why it works:
This song tells a complete emotional arc - from hope to heartbreak in under three minutes. It's a showcase for both vocal control and acting depth, and casting panels are always watching to see if you can connect rather than just perform.
Who should sing it:
Altos or mezzo-sopranos with strong emotional connection
Older teens or adults who can portray lived experience
Performers who are confident staying in character while singing
Audition tip:
Avoid over singing. The real power of this song is in its fragility. Lean into the pain rather than the belt - let it crack a little. Fantine is telling the story of her life falling apart, not trying to land a record deal.
4) "Stars" - for Baritones Who Want Gravitas and Control
Stars is Javert's defining moment - calm, composed, and utterly convinced of his moral purpose. This song is perfect for performers who want to show strength, precision, and dramatic presence without needing to shout.
Why it works:
It's steady and measured, with a noble, almost hymn-like quality. Unlike more emotional solos, this piece lets you showcase vocal control, breath support, and character intensity while keeping everything contained.
Who should sing it:
Baritones or lower tenors
Older teens to adults
Performers who are comfortable playing serious, authority figures
Audition tip:
Don't confuse control with stiffness. Javert's still feeling something - he just channels it into obsession and order. Keep the emotion simmering under the surface. Use posture, tone, and stillness to show that intensity.
5) "In My Life / A Heart Full of Love" - for Sopranos with Light Lyricism
This gentle duet-turned-trio is often overlooked for auditions - but it's a beautiful choice for sopranos who want to show clarity, control, and a touch of romantic innocence. If you're auditioning for Cosette or an ingénue-style role, this one shines.
Why it works:
It's soft, melodic, and emotionally open - without being too dramatic. The lyrical lines allow for gorgeous phrasing, while the scene context offers a clear emotional goal: longing, confusion, and first love.
Who should sing it:
Sopranos or light mezzos with strong legato technique
Teens and young adults, especially those auditioning for romantic leads
Performers who suit gentle, optimistic characters
Audition tip:
You can perform Cosette's solo section on its own, or combine it with part of Marius's line if you want to showcase range. Keep your tone warm, focused, and emotionally open - this one is all about sincerity and connection.
Honourable Mentions (If You Want to Stand Out)
Looking for something a little less expected? This Les Misérables songs might not be typical audition staples, but they offer fantastic opportunities for performers who want to bring something different to the room.
"Who Am I?" - Powerful Choice for Character-Driven Actors
This lesser-used solo from Valjean is full of moral conflict and tension. It's ideal for performers who want to show internal struggle and quiet power - especially older teens and adults with strong acting instincts.
"Little Fall of Rain" - Underrated Duet Potential
Rarely used in auditions but beautifully effective, this duet between Éponine and Marius offers vocal harmony and emotional impact. Best for callbacks or partner scenes where chemistry and restraint matter more than vocal power.
"Do You Hear the People Sing?" - Great for Ensemble Auditions
While not typically used as a solo, this iconic number can be a powerful group piece or ensemble audition moment. It shows unity, purpose, and energy - great for building momentum in school or youth theatre settings.
Final Thoughts
Auditioning with Les Misérables is all about storytelling. Whether you're belting out heartbreak, whispering regret, or standing tall in moral conviction, the most important thing is to connect with the character behind the song.
Choose a piece that fits your voice and your strengths, but more importantly - one you can believe in. Because when you believe it, the panel will too.
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