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 the 2026–27 season, 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! We rehearse Mondays, 7 to 9:30 PM, at Olympia First Baptist.
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. You start with the audition form on their website, and their new member coordinator follows up with dates and details. Brushing up your sight-reading before you go is time well spent.
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: Cold readings from the script, so you do not need a prepared monologue. Headshots and resumes are welcome but not required, and no previous experience is needed. Scripts for the season are on reserve to read at the Downtown Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater Timberland libraries.
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, producing plays and musicals in downtown Olympia.
Audition Style: Professional standard. General auditions are held once a year by appointment (in 2026 they were August 30 and 31). You sign up through the link on their auditions page, and casting questions go to casting@harlequinproductions.org.
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 choirs from kindergarten through 12th grade, and the “Sing with OYC!” link on their site is the way to ask about joining.
Where to find them: olympiayouthchorus.org
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!
Last updated: October 24, 2026
