Mission
The mission of CTE is to collaborate with young people to create an environment of respect and compassion where they can discover for themselves their unique gifts and personal worth.
Get to Know Us
What is CTE?
Creative Theatre Experience, or “CTE,” is a non-profit children’s theatre education program that is the summer home for over 200 students in Olympia, Washington. We offer fun and exciting workshops in theatre, dance, art, and music, all culminating in age-appropriate stage productions at the end of our summer season. The entire CTE program and performances are held at Kenneth J. Minnaert Center on the SPSCC Campus. CTE promotes creativity, builds important life skills, cultivates confidence, and provides leadership opportunities for children and youth entering first grade through high school.
Founded in 1981 by educators Tracey Foster and Lois Wofford, the core of CTE’s workshop staff is still comprised of certified teachers with many years of classroom teaching experience and involvement in the performing arts. The production experience is enhanced through workshops in the visual, musical, and theatre arts. The program uses theatre as a mechanism for exploring important life skills such as communication, conflict resolution, respect, empathy, teamwork, and leadership.
Each workshop has its own director. The directors are supported by a staff that assists with the teaching and administrative work.
Our Programs
Arts Festival
Service Name
Grades K-5
Our CTE Arts Festival is a summer youth theatre camp in Olympia where students explore music, dance, acting, and visual art in a supportive, high-energy environment. Students learn core performing arts skills while building confidence, friendships, and a strong sense of community.
Arts Festival is supported by the Tech Team Workshop, as well as the mentor/internship program
Showcase
Service Name
Grades 5-12*
Showcase is a musical theatre program where students work together to rehearse and perform a full-length, Broadway-style musical. Students receive education in vocals, acting, choreography, and ensemble performance while learning how a full production comes to life from rehearsal to stage.
Showcase is supported by the Production Team Workshop
Spotlight
Service Name
Grades 5-12
Spotlight is a supportive, fun, beginner-friendly theatre program where students learn the basics of acting, singing, dance, and creative expression. It’s an ideal starting point for kids who are new to theatre or want to stay involved throughout the school year in a low-pressure environment.
Showcase is supported by the Production Team Workshop