Any true singers audition for the first time in a musical? Advice?

Question:

Any true singers audition for the first time in a musical? Advice?

I am a singer that has performed in several bands, done solo gigs locally, and occasionaly auditioned for singing contests.
I was interested in venturing out and trying my luck at auditioning for musical theatre. I consider myself a singer first and foremost but I have noticed when I searched the audition ads that I could possibly fit several parts in plays/musicals that only require minor acting but with a strong singing voice. I can do a little bit of hip-hop dancing and did some minor acting in college (but no formal training). I can relate somewhat to Jennifer Hudson in "Dreamgirls" in which she considers herself a singer and that is where her heart is at BUT she has done a few musicals at a local community theatre in her past. I've never done this before so my question is for experienced singers (3+ years) ...have any of you on here auditioned for any musicals? Do you have any advice or tips, pros and cons, for singers auditioning for musical theatre? What was your experience?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Well, first I must commend you for considering "venturing out"! I think all musicians grow exponentially when they expand their horizons.
I am assuming by the description you gave in your question that you are an adult singer and looking into musical theatre on the community theatre or semi professional/professional level. I have been directing high school and community theatre musicals over the past 10 years as well as being a choir director for 15- so my background is heavy on the musical theatre side- and here are my thoughts! (these are the same things I tell my students that seek a career in music or musical theatre)
When you go to audition of the musical/s you will want to do some research on the individual shows and know which parts are ones you can both handle vocally and ones that you can "look the part". Prepare a similar audition song to the style of the character's songs you most hope to play. Remember to have your song memorized, and be able to perform it- at least with your eyes and facial gestures. Pick a great song, from a musical, that is not one too "over done", and one that shows your best attributes.
Remember to hang in there if it takes three or four (or more :) ) auditions before you get in somewhere, especially if you are thinking "professional" as there are many people who study musical theatre in college and are looking to make a career of it- competition is intense, but a good singer/performer will get noticed. Also you will need to makesure which auditions you are eligible for(some are "Equity" jobs- which is the stage actors union)
However, it is a great performance outlet and really builds a singer's stamina, and timing, and consistancy. Having to do it over and over, and over, always improving and tweaking. I have never had a student who did the musicals whose voice did not grow through the experience.