06 December 2025

Auditioning in Olympia: Your 2026 Guide to Local Choirs & Theater

The performing arts scene in Thurston County is thriving. Whether you are a shower singer looking for community, a teen wanting to sharpen your skills, or a seasoned performer ready for the stage, Olympia and Lacey have a "home" for your voice.

As a vocal coach, the most common question I get isn't "How do I sing high notes?"—it's "Where can I sing?"

Below is a curated guide to the best local choral and theater organizations auditioning for their 2025/2026 seasons, along with my top tips for nailing your audition.

Local Choirs & Vocal Groups

Voices of the Sound

The Vibe: Energetic, close-harmony A Cappella. This is a mixed barbershop chorus that emphasizes unity, artistry, and the pure joy of ringing chords.
Who it’s for: Men and women (all voice parts) who want to improve their ear and sing in a supportive, fun environment.
Audition Insight: As the director of this group, I can tell you we look for "coachability" just as much as vocal skill. We love guests—come visit a rehearsal to see if we're the right fit!
Where to find them: voicesofthesound.org

Olympia Chorus (Sweet Adelines)

The Vibe: A powerhouse chorus with a rich history in the Sweet Adelines International tradition. They are known for their vibrant performances and tight harmonies.
Who it’s for: Treble voices (women) looking for camaraderie, education, and performance opportunities.
Audition Insight: They have a wonderful process for new members that often involves visiting rehearsals first. You don't need to be a pro sight-reader, but a good ear for harmony is a huge plus.
Where to find them: olympiasweetadelines.org

Masterworks Choral Ensemble

The Vibe: Classical, polished, and grand. Masterworks is a staple of the Olympia arts community, often performing with orchestral accompaniment at the Washington Center.
Who it’s for: Singers with choral experience who enjoy tackling major works and diverse repertoire.
Audition Insight: Auditions usually happen in January and August. Be prepared to sight-read and prepare a piece that showcases your vocal range.
Where to find them: mce.org

Community & Professional Theater

Olympia Little Theatre (OLT)

The Season: As one of the oldest community theaters in the area, OLT offers a robust season of plays ranging from comedy to drama.
Audition Style: Often involves "cold readings" from the script rather than prepared monologues.
Why audition? It’s a low-pressure, high-reward environment perfect for getting back on stage.
Where to find them: olympialittletheater.org

Olympia Family Theater (OFT)

The Season: Known for heartwarming and whimsical productions like The Snow Queen or The Hobbit.
Audition Style: Inclusive and welcoming. They often look for actors who can move well and bring big character energy.
Why audition? A fantastic place to volunteer and work with a team that values community impact.
Where to find them: olyft.org

Harlequin Productions

The Season: Olympia’s professional theater company. They produce high-quality plays and musicals year-round at the State Theater.
Audition Style: Professional standard. You will typically need a headshot, resume, and two contrasting monologues (or a song cut for musicals).
Note: Keep an eye on their site for general season auditions or specific show submissions.
Where to find them: harlequinproductions.org

Youth Opportunities

Olympia Youth Chorus

Overview: An incredible organization for young singers to learn proper vocal technique and music literacy in a choir setting. They have ensembles for various ages and skill levels.
Where to find them: olympiayouthchorus.org

Apple Tree Productions

Overview: A wonderful educational theater option for kids and teens. They focus on the process of putting on a show, making it a great learning ground for aspiring musical theater performers.
Where to find them: appletreeprod.com

3 Tips to Nail Your Olympia Audition

1. Know the "Room"

If you are auditioning for a microphone-based pop musical, don't sing a classical aria. If you are auditioning for an unamplified choir, don't sing in a breathy "whisper pop" style. Research the group before you go!

2. Confidence > Perfection

Directors in Olympia (myself included!) are always rooting for you. We would rather see a confident singer make a small mistake and keep going than a terrified singer stop in the middle. Walk in like you're happy to be there. Think "Disney" energy!

3. Warm Up Before You Arrive

Nerves constrict your throat. A solid 15-minute warm-up (minimum) ensures you have access to your full range the moment you step into the audition room.

Need Help Prepping?

Whether you need to pick the perfect 16-bar cut for a musical or want to polish your sight-reading for a choir audition, I can help you walk into that room with confidence.

Want to Book a Drop-In Audition Prep Session? Contact me today!

(253) 414-2267

Ted@tedsvoiceacademy.com

4204 Lorna Ct SE, Lacey WA 98503

At Ted's Voice Academy, we offer expert vocal coaching tailored for singers and speakers. Enhance your vocal skills, confidence, and performance with our personalized training and support.

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