Under Covid-19 mandates, Central Theatre Ensemble had to cancel all in-person, live performances in the spring of 2019, but WE ARE BACK!!!

We will be following strict safety protocols and utilizing creative approaches to delivering some amazing theatrical experiences for our audiences. As the landscape of the pandemic is constantly shifting, please keep a close eye on our production plans at this page and/or on our FB page.

CENTRAL THEATRE ENSEMBLE PRESENTS....

Fall 2020

The Tell-Tale Gaze

An original, devised theatrical experience based upon the writings of Edgar Allen Poe.

This series of intimate vignettes will take place in numerous locations in and around McConnell Hall, each based upon one of Poe's short stories of mystery and the macabre- a perfect fit for the Holloween season!  Audiences will be limited to small groups, so make your plans now and stay tuned for more specific ticket and production information.

October 29, 30, 31 and November 4, 5 & 6 at 7:30PM

November 7 at 2PM

Location: In and Around McConnell Hall on the CWU Campus, possible live streaming

This program is not yet rated.

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Winter 2021

Short Works Festival

The opening of this play festival will mark nearly one year of life in the Covid-19 Pandemic. Students apply their creative energies as writers, directors, actors, producers and designers in a collection of short works that is sure to entertain, challenge, amuse and enlighten our community. Find out what has been on the minds and in the hearts of our CWU students. 

February 4, 5 & 6 at 7:30PM

February 7 at 2PM

Location: Tower Theatre in McConnell Hall, possible live streaming

This program is not yet rated, but count on some mature language and themes.

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somebody's children, by Jose Casas

A Staged Reading

somebody's children introduces us to five teenagers who are part of a subculture that isn't shown or explored in the media in any depth. These kids are homeless, and they, along with their families, stay in a rundown motel known as the El Dorado, which is one of many such motels in horrific condition in their area of the city. All the residents deal with issues such as gang violence, drugs and prostitution. Most of the city authorities do little to rectify the situation. The result is that these families live in a world where every day is a challenge and the idea of home is temporary at best. We share a time in the lives of these five teenagers as they tell us their stories through a series of vignettes. They paint a picture of their lives and the cruel realities in which they struggle to survive—all the while doing so in the shadow of Disneyland: The Happiest Place on Earth. Yet, through it all, this group of friends takes the time to share their dreams with us, reminding us that hope can exist in even the harshest conditions.

March 4, 5 & 6 at 7:30PM

March 7 at 2PM

Location: TBA live and Streaming

This program is rated MA.

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Spring 2021

The Theory of Relativity

This moving and unconventional song cycle bursts with originality as it examines the interconnectedness of us all through life's shared experiences - from the hilarious to the heartbreaking. "Take a Physics manual, blend it with the sound of The Book of Mormon, the hilariously nerdy references of The Big Bang Theory , a sprinkle of Chicago, few drops of Glee, bake it in a Broadway bowl, use all the originality you can have....That’s the successful recipe for the spectacular song cycle, The Theory of Relativity."– Live Like Tom

From Drama Desk Award nominees Neil Bartram and Brian Hill (The Story of My Life), The Theory of Relativity is a joyous and moving look about our surprisingly interconnected lives.  Whether you're allergic to cats, in love for the first or tenth time, a child of divorce, a germaphobe or simply a unique individual, audience members and actors alike are sure to find themselves in this fresh new musical.

May 14, 15, 21, 22 at 7:30PM

May 16 & 23 at 2PM

Location: McConnell Auditorium, possible live streaming

This program is rated PG.

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HELP SUPPORT THEATRE ARTS

Did you know that ticket sales and donations account for only 30% of the cost of producing plays at Central Theatre Ensemble?

We hope you will consider supporting our mission of preparing students for the professional world and enriching our community. Here are 3 easy ways to support:

• A cash donation box is located in our foyer during the run of the shows
• Go to Give to Theatre and make sure to;
  • Click on Give to the College of Arts and Humanities
  • Designate your donation to "Theatre Arts Student Success" from the pull down menu
• Contact Lori LaFleur 509-963-1193

Thank you for your patronage and support.

GROUPS of 10 or more receive 20% discount on CTE Productions- automatically applied to order. We would love to make your group's experience unique and memorable- please contact Theatre.Arts@cwu.edu to find out more about backstage tours, workshops, visits with designers, production teams and cast.