Welcome
Chari Smith draws from her creative energy and technical expertise to write music, plays, and musicals. She believes in the power of the performing arts to bring people together for a unique and engaging experience. She is a jazz pianist, playwright, composer, and singer/songwriter.
Her creative adventures range from writing full-length musicals to picture books. If you’re looking for Chari Smith, author and program evaluation expert, yes, that’s her, too. Please visit https://evaluationintoaction.com/ if you’re interested in program evaluation.
Photo Credits: Andie Petkus Photography
About
Chari Smith is a composer, lyricist, and playwright. She studied piano at Berklee College of Music, then taught and performed as a jazz pianist. The Boulder Arts Academy commissioned her to compose & direct two children’s musicals as well as lead their k-12 performing arts programs.
Then, an unexpected turn happened. A 20-year creative drought.
When it broke, it ushered in a new era of creative adventures. Her musical BOOK CLUB was in the 2020 Live on Stage’s Mini Musical Festival in Oregon and is currently being expanded to a full-length show. Her rock musical FREEDOM has had sold-out performances, including a 2026 staged reading at Hillsboro Artists’ Regional Theatre in Oregon. Additionally, songs from FREEDOM won a juried spot in the 2025 New Works Cabaret at Theatre Arlington in Texas.
Her published works include the critically acclaimed children’s picture book The Piano, which conveys her belief that playing an instrument is not only about practice and performance but about forming a lifelong friendship with music. Her published books of plays include Extraordinary Women from U.S. History: Readers Theatre for Grades 4-8 and Little Plays for Little People both designed to help teachers bring theatre into the classroom.
Chari is a proud member of MusicalWriters.com and the Dramatists Guild of America. She lives with her husband in Portland, Oregon and is the mom of two grown children.
Be the first to know
Subscribe to my newsletter to receive news and updates. We never share lists.