New England Dance Ensemble

For residents across New Hampshire, particularly those with a passion for the performing arts or families nurturing aspiring dancers, the New England Dance Ensemble (NEDE) in Londonderry stands as a truly unique and significant local institution. Established in 1986 by artistic director Barbara Mullen, NEDE is not merely a dance school; it is a distinguished non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and a resident dance company at Londonderry Dance Academy. Its mission is to uniquely combine the talents of local pre-professional dancers with currently performing professionals from national and international companies, creating an exceptional platform for both artistic development and community enrichment.

NEDE is dedicated to providing high-quality performance opportunities and comprehensive dance education that extends beyond technique. Members of the New England Dance Ensemble gain invaluable experience performing traditional classical ballet repertoire and contemporary choreography. More than that, they become knowledgeable about composers, choreographers, the rich history of dance, intricate costuming, and stage make-up, fostering a holistic understanding of the performing arts. For the New Hampshire community, NEDE brings evocative and impactful main stage theatre shows right to their doorstep, making professional-caliber dance accessible and inspiring. It is a true asset for anyone in the region looking to engage with dance at a deeper, more artistic level, whether as a performer or an audience member.

The New England Dance Ensemble is located at 21 Buttrick Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053, USA. As the resident company at Londonderry Dance Academy, its physical location benefits from being within an established dance facility. Buttrick Road is typically accessible from major routes in Londonderry, making it convenient for residents not only within Londonderry but also from surrounding towns in Southern New Hampshire, such as Derry, Hudson, Windham, and Manchester.

For those traveling by car, there is generally sufficient parking available at the Londonderry Dance Academy facility, which simplifies drop-offs and pick-ups for students and provides ease of access for audience members attending performances. While specific public transportation details should always be verified with local transit authorities, its location in Londonderry, a well-developed town, generally implies reasonable connectivity within the local road network. The established nature of the Londonderry Dance Academy as a host venue further contributes to a familiar and accessible environment for the New Hampshire community seeking dance-related activities and performances.

As a pre-professional dance company, the New England Dance Ensemble's "services" primarily revolve around providing unparalleled performance and training opportunities, along with bringing significant artistic works to the New Hampshire community.

• Professional Dance Productions: NEDE stages multiple major productions each season, combining the talents of local pre-professional dancers with professional artists. These are significant cultural events for the New Hampshire community.

  • The Nutcracker: A beloved holiday classic, NEDE's production of The Nutcracker is a highlight of the local arts calendar, featuring magnificent scenery, stunning costumes, and Tchaikovsky's iconic music.

  • "A Child's View of The Holocaust": An award-winning and profoundly impactful ballet, this production serves as a powerful educational tool, memorializing the youngest victims of the Holocaust and ensuring historical awareness. It is often presented as a free benefit to the community, demonstrating NEDE's commitment to social responsibility through art.

  • Story Dance Touring Company: A division of NEDE known for productions such as "The Lorax," this company likely focuses on bringing narrative-driven dance to various venues, potentially including schools and community centers.

• Performance Opportunities for Dancers: Membership in NEDE is open to all performers (typically ages 5+) who pass auditions, regardless of whether they are students at Londonderry Dance Academy. This provides ambitious young dancers across New England with invaluable stage experience and exposure to classical ballet repertoire and contemporary choreography.

• Advanced Dance Training & Mentorship: Dancers within NEDE benefit from training alongside and learning from currently performing professionals. This unique mentorship model offers insights into the demands and nuances of a professional dance career.

• Holistic Dance Education: Beyond just technique, NEDE company members gain a deep understanding of dance as an art form, encompassing knowledge of composers, choreographers, dance history, costuming, and stage make-up. This comprehensive approach prepares them for diverse roles within the dance world.

• Community Engagement & Educational Outreach: Through productions like "A Child's View of The Holocaust," NEDE actively engages with and educates the community on important social themes through the powerful medium of dance.

The New England Dance Ensemble offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout organization within the New Hampshire performing arts landscape:

• Unique Blend of Local and Professional Talent: NEDE's core strength lies in its ability to bring together talented local pre-professional dancers and seasoned national/international professionals. This creates a high-caliber performance experience for audiences and an exceptional learning environment for students.

• Impactful and Diverse Repertoire: The company presents a range of productions, from the festive and widely loved "The Nutcracker" to the thought-provoking and historically significant "A Child's View of The Holocaust." This showcases versatility and a commitment to both traditional and socially conscious dance works.

• Pre-Professional Training Pathway: For serious young dancers in New Hampshire, NEDE provides a crucial stepping stone. It offers rigorous training, significant performance experience, and exposure to professional standards, helping to prepare them for potential careers in dance or higher education in the arts.

• Holistic Development for Dancers: Beyond technical skill, NEDE focuses on developing well-rounded artists. This includes education in dance history, music, stagecraft, and the professional aspects of a dance career, as highlighted in their mission.

• Commitment to Community & Education: The presentation of works like "A Child's View of The Holocaust" as educational tools, often free to the public, demonstrates NEDE's strong commitment to enriching the community and using dance as a medium for important messages and historical preservation.

• Long-Standing Reputation: Established in 1986, NEDE has decades of experience and a proven track record of artistic excellence and positive impact within the New England dance community.

• Artistic Director Barbara Mullen's Vision: The consistent quality and unique offerings are a testament to the long-standing artistic direction of Barbara Mullen, who founded the ensemble with a clear vision for fostering dance talent and bringing compelling performances to the region.

For residents across New Hampshire interested in learning more about the New England Dance Ensemble's upcoming productions, audition opportunities, or how to support their mission, please use the following contact details:

Address: 21 Buttrick Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053, USA

Phone: (603) 537-9799

Mobile Phone: +1 603-537-9799

For the vibrant communities of New Hampshire, especially in Londonderry and surrounding areas, the New England Dance Ensemble serves as an invaluable local "point of interest" for anyone connected to or passionate about the performing arts. It offers a unique blend of high-caliber artistic performances and unparalleled opportunities for local dancers, making it a compelling destination for both cultural enrichment and artistic development.

What makes NEDE particularly suitable for locals is its deep roots in the community and its commitment to fostering homegrown talent while maintaining professional standards. As the resident company at Londonderry Dance Academy, it provides a structured and accessible pathway for aspiring dancers to gain significant stage experience. This is not just a commercial venture; as a non-profit, NEDE's focus is on artistic excellence and community contribution.

The ensemble's diverse repertoire, from the enchanting annual production of "The Nutcracker" that becomes a holiday tradition for many New Hampshire families, to the profoundly moving and educational "A Child's View of The Holocaust," demonstrates its versatility and dedication to both entertainment and social impact. These productions provide accessible opportunities for locals to experience professional-level dance without having to travel to major metropolitan centers. For young dancers, the chance to share the stage with and learn from international professionals is an extraordinary advantage offered right here in Londonderry. The comprehensive training, which includes not just technique but also dance history and stagecraft, ensures that participants are well-rounded artists.

In conclusion, the New England Dance Ensemble is more than just a dance company; it's a cultural cornerstone that enriches the lives of New Hampshire residents through exceptional performances and transformative dance education. Whether you're a parent seeking a pre-professional path for your child, an arts enthusiast looking for quality local entertainment, or simply someone who appreciates the power of dance, NEDE offers a truly compelling and enriching experience right in your backyard.

New England Dance Ensemble

21 Buttrick Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053, USA