A season of timeless classics, new premieres, and community connections
By Like Media Team
Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre is Idaho’s oldest live performing arts organization and has been a staple of the community's performing arts scene for nearly 60 years. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization, it brings Broadway to Coeur d’Alene and focuses on sharing the joy of professional musical theatre with the community.
The 58th season is a thrilling lineup full of classics and new ones alike. The much-loved “Hello, Dolly!” (June 27 – July 6) is a frequent audience request and a musical theater classic that kicks off the 2025 season. Next is the regional premiere of “Anastasia” (July 18 – July 27), a newly licensed production that has captured hearts nationwide. Rounding out the season is “She Loves Me” (August 8 – August 17), a timeless piece by one of the greatest musical theater composers. “We love to tell great stories and share great scores. These selections highlight the magic of musical theater and the joy it brings to audiences,” said Chuck Ethridge, Executive Artistic Director.
Behind the curtain, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre’s dedication to excellence drives an impressive production process. With only 17 days from the first rehearsal to opening night, the cast arrives fully prepared with lines memorized, ready to focus on choreography, blocking, and other intricate details. “Our process is fast,” Chuck says, “but it’s exciting, exhausting, and highly competitive.” This year, over 1,400 performers are auditioning for 70 coveted roles, a testament to the theatre’s reputation for professionalism and quality.
Community is an integral part of Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre’s work. In the summer, the company holds ‘Summer Sit-in Sessions’ that give the public a rare chance to mingle with directors, professional actors, and technical staff. These workshops give insider access to Broadway-size productions and allow attendees to meet industry leaders. Also, their production of “Anastasia” will have an additional “Princess Performance,” appropriate for all ages. Families are invited to come dressed up and join in the fantasy of this much-loved tale.
Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre is dedicated to ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of theater. Through initiatives like “Theatre for All,” they work with local businesses and donors to provide tickets for community members facing financial challenges. Thousands of tickets are donated each year to local organizations, helping raise funds and foster a love for the arts. Partnerships with North Idaho College and the Boys & Girls Club further extend the theatre’s impact by providing educational opportunities and nurturing talent.
This spring, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre is embarking on its first co-producing collaboration with the North Idaho College Theatre Department to present “Clue: The Musical” in April. “We are looking forward to helping further the development of theatrical artists through this collaboration,” Chuck shares. The partnership reflects the organization’s ongoing efforts to foster creativity and broaden its impact within the community.
Affordability remains a priority for the theatre, with discounts available for seniors, military members, and students. This season includes special rates for the “Princess Performance” of “Anastasia,” offering an affordable way for families to experience the magic of live theater. Season subscriptions and rush tickets also ensure more people can enjoy professional productions.
As the summer season approaches, Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre invites audiences to immerse themselves in the vibrant stories, captivating music, and memorable musical theatre performances in Coeur d’Alene that have defined its legacy. For tickets and more information, visit cstidaho.com or cstmtti.com. This year promises to be another milestone for Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre as they continue to bring the magic of live theater to the community.
Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre Headquarters
4951 N. Building Center Drive, Suite #107
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815
208.254.0504
Summer Performance Venue
Schuler Performing Arts Center at
Boswell Hall at North Idaho College
880 W. Garden Avenue
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814