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!
