CTE celebrates 45 years of theatre education and welcomes new leadership

Creative Theatre Experience (CTE), Olympia’s longest-running youth theatre program, is proudly celebrating its 45th season! Founded in 1981, CTE offers students, ages 6–18. a hands-on introduction to every aspect of theatre. 

Founding and roots in Olympia 

The program began at Evergreen Forest Elementary with a performance of Peter Pan. CTE’s founder, Tracey Foster, created the group as part of her senior research project through North Thurston School District, and the first play was performed with a cast of 40 under the direction of Tracey’s mother, Lois Wofford.

Today, CTE performs at the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center on the South Puget Sound Community College campus and has twice received Inspire Olympia grants, approved by the Olympia City Council, with current funding secured through June 30, 2026. CTE is truly the pioneer program in Olympia, having started five years prior to the launch of the former Capital Playhouse’s Kids at Play (1986–2013). 

A new era of leadership 

Proven by the test of time, this milestone year ushers in exciting leadership changes.The CTE Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Kristina Cummins as Program Director and Kyle Murphy as Executive Director, marking a new era of growth and artistic excellence.

Advocate for youth theatre 

Kristina Cummins brings more than 20 years of experience as a theatre educator in Thurston County. A longtime supporter of CTE and advocate for theatre education with local and state lawmakers, she has inspired countless students through her work at Capital High School, where she applies an apprenticeship model that empowers students to lead all aspects of production.

She has also held leadership roles with Washington State Thespians for nearly two decades. Her passion for mentorship and youth leadership aligns strongly with CTE’s mission. 

Community arts innovator 

Kyle Murphy, an Olympia native and University of Washington graduate, offers a strong blend of leadership and business expertise. His career includes roles in tech, finance, and advertising with organizations, such as The Seattle Times, Comcast, HSBC and MedBridge. I

n 2018, he co-founded Broadway Olympia, producing five shows at the historic Capitol Theater. Later, he co-founded OlyTheater, the Capital Mall’s first black box theater, creating a vibrant new space for local artists. His commitment to community arts and innovative leadership makes him a dynamic force in shaping CTE’s future.  

Words from a former student member 

Alina Kohnen, now a counselor in the North Thurston School District, remembers her time at CTE fondly.

“They encouraged us to try new things, take on responsibility, and be our individual selves,” she said. 

"I was in CTE for a number of years starting in 2012, involved in their Stagecraft Program. The memories I have from my time at CTE are some of the best of my childhood.

"The program leaders, and the way CTE operated, were completely kid-focused. They encouraged us to try new things, take on responsibility, and be our individual selves. One of the most unforgettable parts of CTE for me was painting the stage bright green for the musical, Honk!  

"They put on great productions, but at the core it was about creating a supportive environment for the participants. The other people I went to CTE with are still some of my best friends. A number of us went on to work in backstage theatre production. In my job as a high school counselor, I try to connect kids with experiences that will be as positive for them as CTE was for me."

Newly elected officers 

Along with welcoming new staff leadership, the CTE Board of Directors has also elected new executive officers: Nora Gant as president, Jerod Nace as vice president, and Louise Doran as treasurer/secretary. 

Celebrating 45 years of impact 

For 45 years, CTE has provided a creative home for thousands of Olympia-area youths, fostering confidence, collaboration and a lifelong love of the arts. This anniversary season celebrates both a rich history and an inspiring future for youth theatre in the South Sound.  

Upcoming events with business partners

• Sunday, Sept. 21 at 5 p.m. – CTE Family Night at Legends Arcade
• Saturday, Sept. 27 at 5 p.m. – Karaoke Night at Wild Child
• Sunday, Oct. 26 at 5 p.m. – Open Mic at Wild Child (bring your sheet music, piano player provided)

For more information 

Check out the CTE website for program details and registration information or contact Jerod Nace, Vice President CTE Board of Directors Outreach Committee Chair at jerod.nace@ctekids.org .