🎭 50 Musical Theatre & Film Songs for Ages 9-16
GIRLS (Ages 9-12)
"Naughty" - Matilda the Musical
Character: Matilda | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Matilda reflects on how unfair her life is and decides to take control by “being a little bit naughty” to create her own destiny.
- Why it works: Showcases youthful defiance, cleverness, and confidence. Perfect for young performers to display strong personality and humor.
"Quiet" – Matilda the Musical
Character: Matilda | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Overwhelmed by the chaos around her, Matilda retreats into her mind where everything is calm and peaceful.
- Why it works: Allows for emotional depth and introspection, showcasing a young performer’s ability to balance subtlety with power.
"When I Grow Up" – Matilda the Musical
Character: Child Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Children dream about the freedom and excitement of growing up.
- Why it works: This song highlights imagination and childlike wonder. It’s an opportunity for young performers to show heart and innocence.
"Castle on a Cloud" – Les Misérables
Character: Young Cosette | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Young Cosette dreams of a peaceful, loving place far from her harsh reality as a child servant.
- Why it works: A perfect opportunity for a young singer to display vulnerability, sweetness, and strong emotional connection.
"I Know It's Today" – Shrek the Musical
Character: Young Fiona | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Young Fiona dreams of being rescued from her tower and imagines her fairytale future.
- Why it works: Combines humor and hope, giving young performers a chance to show comedic timing, optimism, and charm.
"The Girl I Mean to Be" – The Secret Garden
Character: Mary Lennox | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Mary Lennox dreams of growing into a strong, independent person, imagining a future full of happiness and self-assurance.
- Why it works: Shows emotional growth and introspection, while the gentle melody allows young singers to display clarity, sweetness, and storytelling skills.
"Maybe" – Annie
Character: Mary Lennox | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Annie dreams about the day her real parents will return for her.
- Why it works: Requires pure emotional connection, hope, and innocence. Perfect for young singers with strong emotional depth.
"Tomorrow" – Annie
Character: Annie | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Annie remains hopeful that “the sun will come out tomorrow,” no matter how bleak things seem.
- Why it works: A timeless classic for showcasing optimism, vocal clarity, and confidence.
A short note from West End Kids
If you are choosing repertoire because your child is preparing for something – an audition, an exam, a place at a selective programme – it may be worth knowing where they sit against a professional standard before the choice of song matters.
West End Kids runs a self-tape Audition reviewed by our Directors. Performers submit a short vocal, spoken, and movement piece, filmed at home. We respond within seven days with our honest assessment.
It is the route many families take when they want a clear answer before investing further in lessons, songs, or programmes.
"Hard Knock Life" – Annie
Character: Orphan Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: The orphans of Miss Hannigan’s orphanage lament their difficult life.
- Why it works: Great for group energy and personality, offering solo moments to shine while performing with a large ensemble.
"In My Own Little Corner" – Cinderella
Character: Young Ella | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Young Ella dreams of escaping her difficult life by imagining herself in far-off places.
- Why it works: Shows off imagination, storytelling, and innocence while still offering opportunities for strong vocal clarity.
"Do-Re-Mi" – The Sound of Music
Character: Children Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Maria teaches the Von Trapp children the musical notes using playful wordplay and melody.
- Why it works: A bright, energetic performance that showcases charm, diction, and movement, offering room for creativity and playful acting choices.
"My Favorite Things" – The Sound of Music
Character: Children Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Maria comforts the children during a thunderstorm by listing her favorite things that bring joy and peace.
- Why it works: A well-known classic that demonstrates clarity, diction, and breath control, while requiring imagination and emotional connection.
"For the First Time in Forever" – Frozen
Character: Young Anna | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Anna expresses her excitement and hope as she prepares for her sister Elsa’s coronation.
- Why it works: Demonstrates enthusiasm, comedic timing, and youthful wonder. Great for dynamic energy and fun character work.
"Let It Go" – Frozen
Character: Young Elsa or Elsa at older ages | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Elsa embraces her magical powers, releasing her fear and stepping into her true self.
- Why it works: Combines power, control, and confidence. The emotional shift from fear to empowerment allows for vocal range and dramatic storytelling.
"Journey to the Past" – Anastasia
Character: Young Anastasia | Age Range: 9-12 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Anastasia sets out to rediscover her family and find where she truly belongs.
- Why it works: Perfect for emotional storytelling, with moments of longing and hope. The sweeping melody offers dynamic range and emotional power.
GIRLS (Ages 13-16)
"Home" – Beauty and the Beast
Character: Belle | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Belle reflects on being imprisoned by the Beast and redefines the concept of “home.”
- Why it works: A chance to showcase emotional power, introspection, and strong storytelling skills.c
"Part of Your World" – The Little Mermaid
Character: Ariel | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Ariel dreams of living on land and explores her fascination with human life.
- Why it works: A classic “I want” song, perfect for demonstrating wide vocal range, emotional longing, and sincere delivery.
"The Life I Never Led" – Sister Act
Character: Mary Robert | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Mary Robert reflects on the life she could have lived if she had taken more risks.
- Why it works: A perfect moment to showcase vulnerability and regret. Ideal for emotional range and beautiful, sustained notes.
"On My Own" – Les Misérables
Character: Eponine | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Eponine sings about her unrequited love for Marius, imagining a life together that will never happen.
- Why it works: A powerhouse emotional ballad, showcasing vocal control, sustained phrasing, and emotional resonance.
"Pulled" – The Addams Family
Character: Wednesday Addams | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Wednesday sings about her strange new feelings as she falls in love for the first time.
- Why it works: Comedic gold. Requires bold acting, high energy, and strong comedic timing, which makes it an audition favorite.
"Watch What Happens" – Newsies
Character: Katherine Plumber | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Katherine builds her confidence as she plans to write a groundbreaking article to inspire the Newsies’ strike.
- Why it works: Showcases comedic timing, rapid-fire lyrics, and emotional build-up. The mix of self-doubt and determination is relatable and engaging.
"Gimme Gimme" – Thoroughly Modern Millie
Character: Millie Dillmount | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Millie yearns for love and decides she wants passion and adventure over material wealth.
- Why it works: Demands bold energy, power, and a strong belt. The emotional range allows for sass, confidence, and vulnerability in one song.
"Fly, Fly Away" – Catch Me If You Can
Character: Brenda Strong | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Brenda, heartbroken by betrayal, reflects on her love for Frank and her desire for freedom.
- Why it works: Offers big vocal moments and emotional depth, with the chance to display control and power in both soft and belted phrases.
"Good Girl Winnie Foster" – Tuck Everlasting
Character: Winnie Foster | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Winnie reflects on her desire for adventure and freedom beyond her strict, sheltered life.
- Why it works: Captures innocence and a longing for freedom. It showcases emotional growth, hope, and wonder, giving performers a chance to show storytelling skills.
"What It Means to Be a Friend" – 13: The Musical
Character: Patrice | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Patrice reflects on the true meaning of friendship after being let down by her best friend.
- Why it works: Simple but powerful, with tender storytelling and emotional clarity. It highlights vulnerability and sincerity with light vocal demands.
"If Only" – The Little Mermaid
Character: Ariel | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Ariel reflects on her choices, feeling conflicted about her love for Prince Eric and her loss of voice.
- Why it works: Offers emotional complexity and longing, with beautiful harmonies and the chance to show subtle acting and strong vocal control.
"How Far I'll Go" – Moana
Character: Moana | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Moana reflects on her longing to explore beyond the reef, torn between her duty to her family and her desire for adventure.
- Why it works: An inspiring “I want” song with emotional range, vocal clarity, and dynamic shifts from softness to powerful belting.
"Once Upon a December" – Anastasia
Character: Older Anastasia | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Anastasia is haunted by memories of her forgotten past as images of her former life come to life around her.
- Why it works: Combines mystery, nostalgia, and elegance. The haunting melody offers performers the chance to display control, grace, and delicate phrasing.
"Some Things Are Meant to Be" – Little Women
Character: Beth or Jo March | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Beth and Jo share a reflective, bittersweet moment as Beth accepts her fate, and the sisters cherish the present.
- Why it works: A beautiful duet or solo that demands emotional vulnerability, subtlety, and tenderness. It showcases emotional depth and clear, controlled vocals.
"No One Else" – Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
Character: Natasha | Age Range: 13-16 (Girls)
- Synopsis: Natasha expresses the intensity of her love for Andrei, dreaming of their future together.
- Why it works: Lush, emotional storytelling with moments of sweetness and passion. The swelling melody allows for vocal growth, beauty, and clear emotional connection.
BOYS (Ages 9-12)
"Where is Love?" – Oliver!
Character: Oliver | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Young Oliver dreams of being loved and finding a family.
- Why it works: Showcases sweetness, innocence, and emotional vulnerability. Perfect for a young performer to shine emotionally.
"Consider Yourself" – Oliver!
Character: Dodger or Oliver | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Dodger invites Oliver to be part of the gang.
- Why it works: Full of energy, showmanship, and personality. Great for lively performers with charm and charisma.
"Food, Glorious Food" – Oliver!
Character: Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: The hungry orphans dream about delicious food while being fed gruel.
- Why it works: High-energy group number with opportunities for solo lines. Ideal for charisma and energy.
"I Just Can't Wait to Be King" – The Lion King
Character: Young Simba | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Young Simba dreams of becoming king and being in charge.
- Why it works: Pure energy and excitement. Ideal for showcasing personality, movement, and confidence.
"Hakuna Matata" – The Lion King
Character: Young Simba | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Timon and Pumbaa teach Simba their carefree philosophy, “Hakuna Matata,” which means “no worries.”
- Why it works: High-energy and playful with strong comedic potential. It allows for lively movement, charm, and vocal personality.
"Electricity" – Billy Elliot
Character: Billy | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Billy describes his passion for dance and the emotional energy it gives him.
- Why it works: Offers a chance to show raw passion, power, and vulnerability all at once. High emotional impact.
"Expressing Yourself" – Billy Elliot
Character: Billy or Michael | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Billy and Michael celebrate individuality and self-expression through dance, music, and playful rebellion.
- Why it works: Energetic and comedic, it offers opportunities for humor, self-expression, and movement-based performance.
"Gary Indiana" – The Music Man
Character: Winthrop Paroo | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Winthrop sings about his excitement over “Gary, Indiana,” showing newfound confidence as he overcomes his shyness.
- Why it works: Great for showing youthful charm and clear diction. It allows for personality-driven performance and bright, simple melodies.
"Santa Fe" – Newsies
Character: Young Jack Kelly, although older is fine too | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Jack Kelly dreams of escaping New York for a better life in Santa Fe, filled with freedom and opportunity.
- Why it works: A powerhouse solo that allows young performers to showcase emotional depth, vocal strength, and storytelling skills.
"Be Prepared" – The Lion King
Character:Young Scar or as a villain song | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Scar reveals his plan to seize control of the Pride Lands, warning his hyena followers to be ready for his rule.
- Why it works: Perfect for showcasing villainous charm and bold stage presence. The character-driven delivery allows for strong acting and vocal power.
"Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" – Frozen
Character:Young Kristoff or Olaf | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Young Anna begs Elsa to play with her as she copes with isolation.
- Why it works: Childlike curiosity, loneliness, and emotional connection. Ideal for younger performers.
"Revolting Children" – Matilda the Musical
Character: Ensemble or Olaf | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: The children of Matilda’s school rise up in rebellion against their tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.
- Why it works: High-energy ensemble number that offers plenty of solo moments for young performers to stand out, showcasing rebellion and fierce energy.
"Run, Freedom, Run" – Urinetown
Character: Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: The ensemble, led by Bobby, celebrates the idea of freedom as they prepare for revolution against the oppressive system.
- Why it works: A comedic, fast-paced group number filled with high energy, rhythm, and strong opportunities for vocal ensemble work.
"This Is Me" – The Greatest Showman
Character: Ensemble | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: The outcasts of the circus embrace their differences and take pride in their individuality and uniqueness.
- Why it works: A modern, powerful anthem that allows for emotional belting, group unity, and powerful solo opportunities. It’s inspiring and empowering.
"Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" – Mary Poppins
Character: Michael Banks | Age Range: 9-12 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Mary Poppins, Bert, and the children celebrate the joy of a whimsical, magical word that means “something to say when you don’t know what to say.”
- Why it works: Upbeat, fast-paced, and filled with humor. It offers young performers a chance to master quick diction, playfulness, and energy.
BOYS (Ages 13-16)
"Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" – Les Misérables
Character: Marius | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Marius grieves the loss of his friends after the failed student revolution, reflecting on their sacrifice and his guilt for surviving.
- Why it works: A powerful ballad filled with sorrow and reflection. Showcases emotional vulnerability, sustained notes, and strong acting skills.
"Santa Fe" – Newsies
Character: Jack Kelly | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Jack dreams of leaving behind his hard life in New York for the peace and freedom of Santa Fe.
- Why it works: Offers the chance to display emotional longing and hope. It has strong dynamic shifts, from soft reflection to powerful belting.
"Seize the Day" – Newsies
Character: Jack Kelly or Ensemble | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: The Newsies prepare for their strike, rallying each other to fight for their rights and justice.
- Why it works: A rousing anthem with group energy and strong rhythmic drive. It shows off ensemble unity while also giving opportunities for powerful solo moments.
"Corner of the Sky" – Pippin
Character: Pippin | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Pippin dreams of finding his place in the world and his purpose in life.
- Why it works: Classic “I want” song that highlights hope, self-doubt, and ambition. It offers dynamic vocal phrasing and a strong emotional journey.
"Waving Through a Window" – Dear Evan Hansen
Character: Evan Hansen | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Evan reflects on his isolation and desperate longing to be seen and accepted by others.
- Why it works: Modern musical theatre hit with powerful emotional build-up. Offers opportunities to showcase contemporary vocals, control, and vulnerability.
"For Forever" – Dear Evan Hansen
Character: Evan Hansen | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Evan recalls a fictional “perfect day” spent with a friend, allowing him to escape his loneliness.
- Why it works: A delicate yet emotional ballad. The steady build in intensity gives room to showcase vocal control, storytelling, and emotional subtlety.
"Words Fail" – Dear Evan Hansen
Character: Evan Hansen | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Evan confesses his lies and faces the weight of his mistakes, realizing the impact on those around him.
- Why it works: Deeply emotional and raw, requiring intense vulnerability and connection. It’s a showstopper for those with strong emotional and vocal control.
"The Kite" – You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Character: Charlie Brown | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Charlie Brown struggles to fly a kite, battling frustration and self-doubt before ultimately persevering.
- Why it works: A quirky, humorous number that shows off comedic timing and the ability to portray frustration with charm and relatability.
"My New Philosophy" – You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Character: Charlie Brown or Schroeder | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Sally introduces her “new philosophy” on life, embracing a carefree, impulsive attitude.
- Why it works: Offers a comedic, upbeat moment with fast-paced lyrics. It allows performers to show off humor, charm, and quirky character work.
"What If" – The Addams Family
Character: Pugsley Addams | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Pugsley expresses his fear of losing his sister Wednesday, singing about the “what ifs” of life changing too quickly.
- Why it works: Playful but emotional, this song highlights humor and heartfelt moments. Offers quirky, mischievous character work and charm.
"Michael in the Bathroom" – Be More Chill
Character: Michael Mell | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Michael hides in the bathroom at a party, singing about his anxiety, isolation, and growing panic.
- Why it works: A modern, raw, and highly relatable moment. Offers a chance to showcase vulnerability, modern musical theatre style, and emotional build-up.
"Loser Geek Whatever" – Be More Chill
Character: Jeremy Heere | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Jeremy reflects on his fears of being seen as a “loser, geek, whatever,” exposing his insecurity and self-doubt.
- Why it works: Fast-paced, contemporary energy with room for strong character development. Ideal for showing inner turmoil, humor, and self-reflection.
"Left Behind" – Spring Awakening
Character: Melchior | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Melchior reflects on his grief and helplessness after the death of his close friend.
- Why it works: A slow, emotional ballad that requires great vulnerability and emotional connection. Highlights sustained vocals and controlled vibrato.
"All That's Known" – Spring Awakening
Character: Melchior | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Melchior questions authority and societal norms, vowing to seek his own knowledge and truth.
- Why it works: Introspective, rebellious, and powerful. Offers room for emotional build-up, grit, and confident delivery, with strong belting moments.
"One Song Glory" – Rent
Character: Roger Davis | Age Range: 13-16 (Boys)
- Synopsis: Roger reflects on his desire to create one lasting song before his life ends, driven by his urgency to leave a legacy.
- Why it works: Intense, emotional rock ballad with powerful sustained notes. Perfect for showing grit, vocal control, and raw emotional connection.
About West End Kids
West End Kids is a selective, audition-only training and performance company for young performers aged 9–18, founded in 2001. Alumni currently perform in West End, Broadway, and international productions, including Six!, &Juliet, Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, and Heathers, among others. Dua Lipa is also a West End Kids alumna.
If you have spent time thinking about repertoire for your child, the natural next question is usually whether their current level is aligned with the next stage of their training.
Our self-tape Audition is the simplest way to find out. Filmed at home, reviewed by our Directors, with a response within seven days. £15.
