A Lifelong Advocate for the Arts Joins the Musical Theatre Training Institute

We are thrilled to announce that Paul Swofford has joined Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre as our new Education Program Manager for the Musical Theatre Training Institute (MTTI). With over 25 years of passionate advocacy for the performing arts and a deep commitment to education, Paul brings a unique blend of theatrical experience and educational expertise that perfectly aligns with our mission to develop quality musical theatre talent for our stage and beyond.

From Centaur to Champion: Paul's Theatre Journey

Paul's love affair with theatre began in 1997, inspired by classic performers like Doris Day and Danny Kaye. His first role as the Centaur in his high school production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe—complete with proudly glued chest hair and the memorable line, "Aslan has come!"—marked the beginning of what he describes as "love at first tap shoe."
Though Paul may not have been the leading man, his dedication to the art form has been unwavering. For more than two decades, he has worked tirelessly as a supporter, mentor, and advocate for theatre in our community. His journey reflects a profound truth: the magic of theatre isn't just found in the spotlight, but in the countless individuals who dedicate themselves to nurturing the next generation of performers.

An Educator's Heart, An Artist's Soul

Paul holds a degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Literacy, specializing in working with emergent readers and students with disabilities. This background provides him with invaluable insights into how different learners engage with the arts and how to create inclusive, supportive environments where every student can thrive.
His diverse experience includes teaching middle school theatre, mentoring local productions, serving as a regular judge for district and state drama competitions in the Coeur d'Alene school district, and co-founding Kootenai County's first improv team. Paul is also the author of the children's book series "The Adventures of Basil Brownfoot," demonstrating his commitment to storytelling in all its forms.

A Philosophy Rooted in Support and Compassion

"As an educator, I believe that true learning comes from cultivating an environment of support, communication, and compassion," Paul shares.

This philosophy aligns perfectly with MTTI's commitment to creating spaces where students of all ages and backgrounds feel comfortable to learn, grow, and develop their skills.
In his new role, Paul will be responsible for designing and implementing innovative theatre education programs, managing our talented teaching artists, building partnerships with schools and community organizations, and ensuring that every MTTI program reflects the highest standards of quality and professionalism. His deep roots in the Coeur d'Alene community—he was born and raised here—give him unique insights into the needs and aspirations of our local families and students.

What This Means for Musical Theatre Training Institute

With Paul at the helm of our education programs, we're poised to expand and enhance MTTI's offerings in exciting new ways. His experience working with diverse learners, combined with his deep knowledge of local schools and community needs, will help us reach more students and create even more impactful programs.

Paul's commitment to fostering "passionate learners as they bring professionalism and joy to our community" perfectly encapsulates what MTTI is all about. Whether you're a fifth-grader discovering musical theatre for the first time or an adult looking to reignite your passion for performance, Paul and his team are dedicated to helping you develop your skills in a supportive, professional environment.

Exciting Programs for Spring 2026

Under Paul's leadership, MTTI is offering an impressive lineup of programs this spring. Whether you're just beginning your musical theatre journey or ready to take your skills to the next level, we have something for you.

Studio Training Classes

Our studio training classes are modeled after NYC musical theatre studio training methodology. The Spring 2026 session runs from Saturday, March 7th through Saturday, May 9th.

Introduction to Musical Theatre (Ages 8-12)
Perfect for young performers who are new to musical theatre or want to build a strong foundation. This prerequisite course covers the essential skills needed to succeed in more advanced training.

Introduction to Musical Theatre (Ages 13-Adult)
Whether you're discovering musical theatre for the first time or returning after years away, this adult-focused introduction provides a welcoming environment to explore the art form.

Looking Ahead: Summer 2026

Mark your calendars for our signature summer program:

Broadway Experience Day Camp
This exhilarating summer camp for ages 8-13 offers young performers the opportunity to develop their skills, meet professionals from around the country, and tour our professional season productions daily. It's a truly immersive experience that brings campers into the heart of professional musical theatre.

Year-Round Opportunities

Beyond our structured classes and camps, MTTI offers a wide range of programs throughout the year:

• Workshops and Masterclasses: Targeted sessions focusing on specific skills or techniques, perfect for supplementing your regular training.
• Drop-In Classes: Flexible options for those with busy schedules who still want to stay connected to their craft.
• Private Training: One-on-one instruction in acting, singing, or dance for serious performers looking to advance their skills. Available on a semester basis each spring and fall.
• Summer Artist Series: Learn from resident professionals including Broadway directors, performers, technicians, and creatives who share their experiences and insights about life in professional musical theatre.
• Pop-Up Workshops: Portable, modular workshops that break down the three core performing arts skills—acting, singing, and dance—in 60-minute sessions. Perfect for schools, community groups, and special events.
• Internship Opportunities: For high school seniors and college students interested in exploring professional theatre as a career path, MTTI offers hands-on experience in marketing, educational outreach, season planning, fundraising, media, and backstage processes.

The MTTI Advantage

When you enroll in MTTI programs, you're not just taking classes—you're becoming part of a professional theatre community. Students actively enrolled in the Musical Theatre Training Institute receive priority access to:

• Auditions for Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre productions
• Internship opportunities
• Scholarship opportunities
• And much more

Our faculty consists of professionals actively involved in the performing arts who hold at least a Bachelor's degree or have 4,000+ hours of experience in their specialty. This ensures that you're learning from the best, with instruction that reflects current professional standards and practices.

For those committed to the journey, MTTI's 10-week studio sessions count toward our Professional Musical Theatre Certification program, providing a clear pathway for those aspiring to professional careers in musical theatre.

Building Community Through Theatre Education

Paul's appointment reflects our commitment to expanding MTTI's reach throughout the Inland Northwest. With his extensive network in local schools and his passion for making theatre accessible to all, we're excited to develop new partnerships with schools, community organizations, and underserved communities.

Whether through in-school residencies, after-school workshops, community-based initiatives, or our studio programs, MTTI is dedicated to sharing the transformative power of musical theatre with everyone in our community.

Join Us on This Journey

Paul's arrival marks an exciting new chapter for the Musical Theatre Training Institute. His dedication to creating environments where everyone feels comfortable to learn, grow, and develop their skills will help us fulfill our mission of developing quality musical theatre talent for our stage and beyond.

Whether you're a student looking to explore musical theatre for the first time, a parent seeking quality arts education for your child, or an educator interested in bringing theatre programming to your school, Paul and the entire MTTI team are here to support you.

"I am honored to be a part of the CST family and to help cultivate passionate learners as they bring professionalism and joy to our community," Paul shares.

And we are honored to have him.

Get Started Today

Ready to begin your musical theatre journey or take your skills to the next level? Here's how to get involved:

Visit our website: cstmtti.com to explore all our program offerings and register for classes.

Sign up for our mailing list: Get first access to classes, workshops, camps, and special announcements by joining our email list on the website.

Contact us: Have questions about which program is right for you? Reach out to Paul and the MTTI team at mtti@cdasummertheatre.com or call 208-254-0504.

Follow us: Stay connected with MTTI and Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre on social media for behind-the-scenes content, student spotlights, and program updates. Facebook. Instagram.

The Musical Theatre Training Institute continues Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre's legacy of sharing the joy of professional musical theatre with our community - a tradition we've proudly maintained since 1967 as Idaho's oldest performing arts organization. With Paul Swofford leading our educational initiatives, we're excited to write the next chapter of this story together.

Welcome to the family, Paul. Let's share the joy of musical theatre with our community!