ABOUT Charlie Karner
Charlie Karner’s journey with CTE/FVTC spans over half a decade, beginning in elementary school and continuing all the way through middle school. From his earliest days on stage in second grade to his final curtain call in eighth, Charlie estimates he was involved in over 20 shows during his time with the program. That level of dedication speaks volumes—not just to his passion for performing, but also to the vital role CTE played in his development as a young artist and person.
One of Charlie’s most memorable experiences came during Peter Pan, a production he cites as his favorite—not just for the story, but for the thrill of getting to fly on stage. It was a magical moment, the kind that makes live theater unforgettable. Another standout memory was performing “Three is a Magic Number” with fellow cast member Allie Dulabaum, a number that brought together music, friendship, and a shared joy that defines so much of the CTE experience.
Now a student at Yale University studying music, Charlie continues to pursue his artistic passions with both heart and ambition. Currently on a gap year, he’s touring with the renowned a cappella group, the Yale Whiffenpoofs, sharing his love of music around while embracing new experiences. Whether through song or through art, Charlie is interested in following a creative path and is passionate about building community and learning from the world around him—values he traces back to his time with CTE.
Charlie reflects on his CTE years with deep gratitude, recognizing the strong foundation the program gave him not only musically, but socially as well. For him, CTE was more than a stage—it was a second home, a place to grow, connect, and be surrounded by people who shared his curiosity and creativity. He still treasures the friendships made and the sense of belonging that CTE provided outside of school.
