Spokane Public Radio hosts Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre in a sit down interview.

We were recently hosted by Henry McNulty on the Spokane Public Radio "From The Studio" series. We've writt a brief summary below. We encourage you to listen to the episode here.

Henry McNulty hosts a discussion featuring Chuck Ethridge, the Executive Artistic Director of Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre, and Shoshana Rubli, the Director of Education.

Chuck, reflects on his role as Executive Artistic Director, celebrating his third anniversary in this position. He emphasizes the year-round nature of the role, which encompasses various responsibilities such as hiring staff, fundraising, and organizing auditions. Although the summer season is the primary focus of Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre, preparations for it begin as early as January. This year, a record number of auditioners is anticipated, exceeding 1,000 participants.

Following the conclusion of the summer season in August, the Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre team takes a brief hiatus before gearing up for their annual fundraiser, which is hosted in late September.

Typically, the upcoming season is announced during the summer shows, and the organization is considering the addition of a Christmas program in the future. Fundraising efforts include hosting small parlor concerts in private homes, aimed at engaging and connecting with supporters of the theater.

Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre is also expanding its educational initiatives, notably through a collaboration with North Idaho College to produce "Clue the Musical."

This partnership is designed to enhance the resources and visibility of both organizations within the community. The Schuler Performing Arts Center at North Idaho College serves as the main venue for performances, boasting a rich history with Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre, having hosted productions for 23 years before a temporary move to the Kroc Center.

Chuck discusses the significant challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in a two-year hiatus from performances.

During this period, he learned grant writing skills, which enabled him to secure substantial funding through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant. This funding was crucial in stabilizing the organization and facilitating infrastructure improvements. As a result, Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre is now in the process of creating a studio theater space that will host various events, including a dance workshop led by New York director Antoinette DiPietropolo.

Shoshana Rubli elaborates on the Musical Theater Training Institute, which offers classes in acting, singing, and dance.

The spring semester is set to begin on February 1, featuring a 10-week introductory course. Musical Theatre Training Institute also emphasizes outreach programs, providing workshops in schools and summer arts enrichment programs. These initiatives allow students to attend Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre productions, tour backstage, and engage with cast members, thereby enhancing their understanding of theatre.

The summer camp program is designed to run concurrently with the professional season, providing children with exposure to the production process and opportunities to interact with professional performers.

The camp aims to deliver a comprehensive experience that enriches the children's understanding of theatre and performance.

Shoshana underscores the importance of delivering high-quality arts education to underserved communities in Idaho, with the goal of bridging gaps in access to the arts.

Musical Theatre Training Institute also offers internship and job shadowing opportunities for high school students interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of theatre, fostering a new generation of theatre professionals.

Chuck highlights the significance of continuous skill development for performers, noting that Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre brings in nationally acclaimed directors to mentor local talent.

The organization strives to create a professional environment where local performers can learn and grow alongside seasoned professionals. Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre has a history of nurturing talent, with many alumni advancing to successful careers in theatre.

The discussion touches on the concept of regional theater, which focuses on professional performances within a specific geographic area.

Chuck explains that Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre aims to provide a platform for both local and visiting artists, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all involved.

The selection of shows for the season is guided by community input and financial viability, with a mission to bring joy to the community through professional musical theater.

The upcoming 2025 summer season includes productions of "Hello, Dolly!," "Anastasia," and "She Loves Me." Season subscriptions are currently available, with individual tickets set to go on sale in April.

The conversation concludes with expressions of gratitude from both Chuck and Shoshana for the opportunity to share their work and initiatives with the community. They emphasize the importance of arts education and professional development within the theater industry, highlighting their commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of the region.

Listen to the broadcast here.

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MAILING ADDRESS:
Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre
4951 N. Building Center Drive #107
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815

STUDIO & BOX OFFICE WINDOW:
Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre
4951 N. Building Center Drive #108
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815

PERFORMANCE VENUE:
Schuler Performing Arts Center
at North Idaho College
Boswell Hall 880 W. Garden Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

PHONE: 208-254-0504 | EMAIL: info@cdasummertheatre.com

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Idaho's oldest performing arts organization

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Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization #82-0386992

SUPPORTED IN PART BY GRANTS FROM:

Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation