Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre Sets the Stage

Three regional premieres and Broadway-caliber performances in 2026

By Like Media Team

For nearly six decades, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre has shown that Broadway-caliber musical theatre belongs right here in North Idaho. Founded in 1967, the professional regional theatre has built a reputation for delivering full-scale productions that audiences routinely describe as “better than Broadway.” That legacy continues with a 2026 season designed to surprise, inspire, and elevate expectations for what summer theatre in Coeur d’Alene can be.

The 2026 lineup features three productions, all Tony Award winners or nominees, all new to the theatre’s stage, and all regional premieres. The season opens with Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical, running June 26 through July 5, followed by Come From Away from July 17 through July 26. The summer concludes with Titanic The Musical, on stage August 7 through August 16. Together, these shows reflect a season built on technical excellence, emotional depth, and storytelling typically associated with major metropolitan theatres, now brought to life on a North Idaho stage.

That level of programming is intentional. At its core, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre exists to bring joy to its community through professional musical theatre. With a vision to be the premier musical theatre organization in the Pacific Northwest, the company produces three full-scale Broadway musicals each summer, performed by top-tier artists in a setting that consistently exceeds expectations. While audiences may arrive curious, many leave surprised to discover that this caliber of performance exists right in Coeur d’Alene, without the need to travel to Spokane, Seattle, or New York.

Education plays a central role in that mission. Through Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre’s Musical Theatre Training Institute, more than 1,000 youth participate annually in classes, workshops, camps, and enrichment opportunities. These programs provide meaningful exposure to professional theatre while fostering confidence, creativity, and collaboration. For many young performers, the institute serves as an entry point into the world of musical theatre, grounded in professional standards and mentorship.

The theatre’s commitment to community extends even further. Each year, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre donates approximately $40,000 in tickets to more than 150 local nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups throughout the region. These partnerships support a wide range of causes and help ensure that professional musical theatre remains accessible to audiences from all walks of life.

Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre is also a vital contributor to the region’s economic health. Its 10-week summer season generates a powerful ripple effect throughout the local economy. With an annual operating budget of $1.2 million, the organization produces an estimated $13.2 million in total economic impact through employment, contractor services, production spending, housing for cast and crew, and indirect spending with local vendors and suppliers. More than 20,000 attendees further contribute by supporting local accommodations, dining, transportation, and entertainment during the season.

“Whether you’re seeing Broadway-caliber performances right here in North Idaho, or you’re a young performer taking your first steps on a professional stage, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre exists to create moments of pure theatrical magic that stay with you long after the curtain falls. At the same time, we’re committed to making theatre accessible and joyful for everyone who walks through our doors,” says Chuck Ethridge, Executive Artistic Director.

Community members are encouraged to support the theatre by attending performances, volunteering, or donating. Nearly 300 volunteers are needed each year to assist with summer productions, box office operations, and educational programming. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre relies on donations, sponsorships, and ticket purchases to sustain its mission and continue delivering Broadway-quality performances in North Idaho.

With a landmark 2026 season ahead, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre remains a defining force in the region’s cultural and community landscape, proving that world-class musical theatre not only belongs in Coeur d’Alene but continues to thrive here.

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

cstidaho.com

FB: cstidaho

IG: cstidaho

Check out more business spotlights here!