The Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre has hired an Executive Artistic Director.

After four years of performing, volunteering and working with the summer theater, Chuck Ethridge started his new paid and full-time position of executive artistic director with the theater on Jan. 5.

"I am humbled and excited to take on this new role," Ethridge said. "The performing arts are a critical piece to any thriving community. My team's aim will be the highest quality live theater possible, bringing joy and entertainment to the region and creating great experiences for our performers and crews.”

Ethridge served as the associate artistic director beginning in late 2018, and was moved to the executive director role during the latter part of the theater’s two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of the work Ethridge performed was on a volunteer basis.

In his new position, Ethridge is tasked with fundraising, managing the theater’s business operations and overseeing the artistic direction and production.

Ethridge has been a lifelong performer and had his first role in a professional musical at the age of 19. He studied vocal performance at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego and did graduate studies in voice at the University of Idaho.

Ethridge has worked as a performer, music director, conductor and private voice teacher.

A Coeur d’Alene resident since 1994, Ethridge said he loves the community of artists and culture in North Idaho and is excited for his new role with Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre.

“Producing and managing a theater is an enormous amount of work,” Ethridge said, “but it is one of the most joyful experiences there is, collaborating with artistic professionals, performers and technical crews.”

Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre Board President LaDonna Beaumont said the theater has a history of talented, passionate leadership and the board is excited to see Ethridge carry on that legacy of excellence.

“As our new executive artistic director, Chuck has the experience and enthusiasm to put the dark years behind us, and help CST step back into the light,” Beaumont said. “We could not be more confident that we have some amazing years ahead with him at the helm.”

Those interested in audition information or season tickets, visit cdasummertheatre.com/.