When it comes to igniting a passion for music and theatre, few things resonate more than a catchy, kid-friendly musical theatre song. Whether they’re looking for the best audition songs, practising for a local musical production, or just having fun singing along at home, these top picks will get them singing and stepping into the spotlight with confidence.

With an emphasis on classic West End songs and tunes from well-loved musicals like Annie, Mary Poppins, and Billy Elliot, these songs are perfect for introducing kids to the magic of theatre. 

Plus, they provide excellent practice for rhythm, pitch, and confidence-building—all key for young performers enrolled in musical theatre classes at London-based Spotlights or elsewhere.

9 Musical Theatre Songs for Kids

1. “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music

Starting with a song that’s practically musical theatre 101, “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music is as entertaining as it is educational. This timeless tune teaches kids the basics of musical notes in a way that’s easy to remember and fun to sing. It’s often a staple in musical theatre classes, especially for younger kids just finding their feet in the world of performance.

Research shows that children exposed to music education at an early age show better cognitive development and language skills, making songs like “Do-Re-Mi” not only fun but beneficial to their overall growth.

Find Out More: Are Singing Classes for Kids Worth It?

2. “It’s a Hard Knock Life” from Annie

Next up, the spirited “It’s a Hard Knock Life” is an energetic group number that introduces kids to emotive singing and strong stage presence. Known for its catchy chorus and sassy lyrics, it’s a favourite among young performers, especially those involved in ensemble work in musicals. This musical production Annie hit helps them understand teamwork, projection, and the importance of clear articulation.

A fun fact: Annie is one of the most performed musicals in schools, with “It’s a Hard Knock Life” often chosen for its spirited, family-friendly appeal that can get an entire audience tapping along.

3. “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from The Lion King

A playful tune from Disney’s The Lion King, “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” is perfect for younger children. This song for kids has a vibrant energy that captures the joy of a child’s imagination, allowing kids to express their individuality on stage. With its upbeat tempo and lively lyrics, it’s ideal for building confidence and showing off their personality.

Songs from The Lion King are often featured in youth theatre due to their rhythmic, catchy nature and accessible themes, making them some of the best kids’ West End songs.

4. “Consider Yourself” from Oliver!

If you’re looking for a tune that combines history with a hint of cheek, “Consider Yourself” from Oliver! is the perfect choice. This song, set in Dickensian London, allows kids to explore different characterisations while working on pitch and harmony. It’s also a great introduction to the British musical theatre style, giving kids a taste of classic West End songs with a historical twist.

This piece is often performed as a group number in youth theatre classes, helping kids learn about the importance of synchronisation and listening to each other while singing, a vital skill for any budding actor.

5. “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” from Mary Poppins

It may be a mouthful, but “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” from Mary Poppins is a guaranteed hit for kids who love the whimsy of language and musical theatre. This song’s challenging yet fun lyrics are fantastic for building memory skills, while its upbeat tempo encourages kids to let loose on stage. Plus, the choreography is as playful as the song itself, making it perfect for introducing dance steps in musical theatre classes.

Mary Poppins remains a beloved family musical, and this happy tune, in particular, has been proven to engage young audiences, helping them build confidence and performance skills that go beyond the stage.

Read More: 10 Benefits of Musical Theatre for Kids

6. “Electricity” from Billy Elliot

For slightly older kids who want to showcase more complex emotions and movements, “Electricity” from Billy Elliot is the perfect match. This powerful ballad allows kids to express raw emotion and refine their vocal skills. With themes of determination and joy, it resonates with children who love both singing and dancing, giving them a song that lets them shine on every level.

In musical theatre, Billy Elliot has become an iconic representation of young talent breaking boundaries, making “Electricity” a meaningful choice for kids exploring more intensive theatre training.

7. “When I Grow Up” from Matilda

This heartwarming tune from Matilda taps into kids’ curiosity about the future, making it relatable and perfect for solo or group performances. “When I Grow Up” has a reflective yet hopeful tone that appeals to kids, letting them work on projecting both their voices and their personalities.

The song’s gentle rhythm is excellent for building breath control, while the theme resonates with kids who are just beginning to imagine their futures, perhaps as professional performers themselves. It’s often used in audition settings as it shows off a child’s voice without being too technically demanding.

8. “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid

An absolute classic, “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid is ideal for any young performer who dreams of making waves in the world of musical theatre. This piece allows kids to express longing and curiosity through its tender lyrics, making it a staple for beginner singers.

With The Little Mermaid being a childhood favourite, this song is a popular choice for auditions and performance classes. Its gentle melody lets kids explore more delicate vocal techniques, like soft belting, and helps build their confidence in tackling emotional expression.

9. “Seventy-Six Trombones” from The Music Man

For something a little more classic, “Seventy-Six Trombones” from The Music Man combines rhythm, syncopation, and charm. Its cheerful, parade-like feel has a timeless appeal, making it a great option for ensemble performances in musical theatre classes. The song’s rhythmic challenge also encourages kids to work on their timing and articulation.

You Might Like: 10 Things to Look For In a Theatre School for Kids

Looking for Musical Theatre for Kids in London?

Musical theatre is more than just a fun activity, it’s a powerful way for kids to develop essential skills that extend far beyond the stage. According to a study, children who participate in theatre show higher levels of empathy, creativity, and communication. Songs like these build their self-confidence, resilience, and ability to collaborate with others—key benefits that help them shine not only as performers but as well-rounded individuals.

At Spotlights, our musical theatre classes are designed to foster these skills through beloved West End songs and classic tunes, allowing each child to discover the thrill of performance while building friendships and life skills.

Our range of weekly classes and holiday workshops cater to children of all ages and skill levels, making it an inclusive and nurturing environment for all.

Book your free trial or get in touch for more information!

Best Musical Theatre Songs for Kids FAQs

What are the best beginner-friendly musical theatre songs for kids?

For young beginners, songs like “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music and “Consider Yourself” from Oliver! are fantastic options. These songs are catchy, easy to learn, and help kids build fundamental skills in pitch, rhythm, and timing. They’re also commonly used in theatre classes, giving kids a great foundation in musical performance.

Can musical theatre songs help improve my child’s confidence?

Absolutely! Musical theatre songs encourage kids to express emotions, project their voices, and perform in front of others—all of which build self-confidence. Songs like “It’s a Hard Knock Life” from Annie and “Electricity” from Billy Elliot allow kids to showcase personality and emotion, helping them feel more comfortable and confident on stage.

Are these songs suitable for auditions?

Yes, many of these songs are audition-friendly and highlight different skills. For instance, “When I Grow Up” from Matilda is a great choice for displaying vocal expression, while “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from The Lion King shows off personality and energy. These pieces are popular with young performers and can be a great way to make a memorable impression.