UNH Department of Theatre and Dance

For those of us living in New Hampshire, particularly in the Seacoast region, access to high-quality performing arts education and vibrant cultural events is a true asset. The University of New Hampshire's Department of Theatre and Dance, located within the Paul Creative Arts Center in Durham, stands as a cornerstone of this artistic landscape. It's a place where "passionate students and faculty" come together to create transformative experiences, fostering the next generation of performing arts professionals and scholars.

More than just an academic department, the UNH Department of Theatre and Dance is a dynamic hub for creative expression and intellectual inquiry. Their mission is deeply rooted in preparing students for the multidisciplinary nature of theatre and dance, equipping them with specialized knowledge and skills vital for success in the performing arts industry. This commitment to comprehensive training means that students are not only learning techniques but also developing critical thinking, collaboration, and storytelling abilities that extend far beyond the stage.

From a local New Hampshire perspective, the department offers an invaluable resource. It's a place where you can witness captivating student and faculty productions, often showcasing emerging talent and innovative approaches to performance. These events enrich the cultural fabric of our state, providing accessible opportunities for residents to engage with live theatre and dance. Whether you're a prospective student considering a career in the arts, a parent looking for engaging performances, or simply someone who appreciates creative excellence, the UNH Department of Theatre and Dance offers something unique and inspiring right here in Durham.

The department prides itself on its supportive environment, where "experienced faculty is very supportive of students." This nurturing atmosphere is crucial for artists to take risks, experiment, and grow. While one reviewer wished for more investment in the theater facilities, acknowledging a common challenge in arts education, the dedication of the staff and the quality of the programs clearly shine through, ensuring that students are well-prepared for life after college, whether on stage, backstage, or in related fields. It’s a testament to the fact that passion and dedication can overcome many obstacles, creating a truly impactful educational and artistic experience.

The UNH Department of Theatre and Dance is centrally located within the Paul Creative Arts Center (PCAC) at 30 Academic Way, Durham, NH 03824, USA. Durham, a quintessential New England college town, is easily accessible within New Hampshire and from neighboring states, making this a convenient destination for students, performers, and audience members alike.

The Paul Creative Arts Center itself is a prominent building on the University of New Hampshire's Durham campus, designed to house the various fine and performing arts departments. "Academic Way" is a descriptive street name that signifies its place at the heart of the university's intellectual and creative pursuits. This central campus location means it's well-integrated into the university's infrastructure, with various amenities and services nearby.

For those traveling by car, Durham is easily reached via major New Hampshire routes. Parking on a university campus can sometimes be a consideration, but the PCAC's location within a larger university setting usually implies designated parking areas for visitors and permit holders. It's advisable to check the UNH parking services for the most current information regarding visitor parking options and accessibility for events.

While one review mentions the building being "very confusing" in terms of navigation, this is a common experience in large academic buildings with multiple wings and departments. However, clear signage and campus maps are typically available to help visitors find their way. The PCAC houses two main theaters—the large, 667-seat Johnson Theatre and the more intimate, 130-seat Hennessy Theatre (a black box space that has undergone recent renovations)—as well as various studios, classrooms, and workshops. Additionally, the Newman Dance Studio and a smaller "stage" studio are located in nearby New Hampshire Hall, which is also part of the department's facilities. The department website generally provides detailed directions and information for accessing these spaces.

The strategic location of the Paul Creative Arts Center within the UNH campus ensures that the Department of Theatre and Dance is a highly accessible and prominent cultural institution for residents throughout New Hampshire and beyond, inviting locals to engage with its academic and performance offerings.

The UNH Department of Theatre and Dance offers a comprehensive array of services, primarily focused on academic programs and public performances, serving both its student body and the wider New Hampshire community:

• Undergraduate Degree Programs:
  • Theatre Majors: Students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with various options, including acting, directing, design and theatre technology, theatre history, theory and criticism, youth drama, and secondary theatre education.
  • Dance Option: A comprehensive program for aspiring dance teachers, choreographers, and performers, developing technical skills in various dance forms.
  • Dance Education: Pathways to K-12 dance teacher certification in New Hampshire.
• Graduate Degree Programs: While the primary focus is undergraduate, the university offers numerous graduate programs, including master's degrees that students can transition into, such as a fifth-year master's in teaching program through the UNH Education Department.
• Performance Productions:
  • Mainstage Productions: The department produces a full season of major theatre and dance productions on the Johnson Theatre stage and in the Hennessy Theatre (black box), showcasing both classic and contemporary works.
  • Student Showcases: Opportunities for students to present their work, often at the culmination of their studies each semester.
  • Annual Dance Concerts: Faculty-directed dance concerts and student-created showcases are presented yearly.
  • Musical Theatre Productions: The department often collaborates on large-scale musical theatre pieces.
• Youth Programs and Community Outreach:
  • Little Red Wagon: The longest-running non-profit children's theatre tour in the U.S., performing throughout New England.
  • ArtsReach: A touring program that brings short, prepared performances to elementary and middle school-aged students across the region, including talk-back opportunities.
  • Ideas in Action: A program designed to infuse live performance and interactive theatre pieces into classrooms and other university programs, fostering collaboration with other departments.
  • CLASS ACTion & INTERaction: Programs offering prepared scenes and interactive theatre models for educational and discussion purposes.
• Facilities Rental: Space in classrooms, theatres, and dance studios (including those with sprung Marley floors) managed by the Theatre and Dance Department can be reserved for various uses.
• Workshops and Intensives: The department hosts various workshops and intensives, sometimes attracting dancers and theatre practitioners from outside the immediate student body.

The UNH Department of Theatre and Dance boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a notable institution for performing arts in New Hampshire:

• Passionate and Supportive Faculty: As highlighted by reviews, the department is characterized by "passionate students and faculty" and "experienced faculty very supportive of students." This nurturing environment is crucial for artistic development and academic success.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Offers a wide array of courses covering acting, voice, movement, directing, choreography, design, theatre technology, history, criticism, youth drama, playwriting, and various dance styles (ballet, theatre dance, aerial dance). This breadth ensures a well-rounded education.
• Focus on Experiential Learning: A core commitment to "experiential learning in the classroom, on stage and through community outreach" ensures students gain practical, hands-on experience, preparing them for professional careers.
• Diverse Performance Opportunities: From major mainstage productions in two distinct theaters (Johnson and Hennessy) to student showcases, annual dance concerts, and touring youth theatre programs (Little Red Wagon, ArtsReach), students have numerous avenues to perform and apply their skills.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities (despite age): While some facilities may show their age, the department utilizes well-equipped spaces including:
  • Johnson Theatre: A 667-seat proscenium theatre for major productions.
  • Hennessy Theatre: A renovated 130-seat black box theatre, ideal for experimental and student works.
  • Newman Dance Studio: A large (3500 sq. ft.) fully equipped dance studio with a removable Marley floor.
  • Dedicated Shops: Well-equipped scene and costume shops.
• Emphasis on Collaboration and Inclusivity: The department actively cultivates "compassionate and collaborative communities." Programs like "Ideas in Action" exemplify their commitment to cross-disciplinary collaboration within the university.
• Preparation for Professional Life: The department and staff are noted for getting students "ready for life after college," indicating a strong focus on career readiness and practical skills.
• Long-Standing Community Programs: The "Little Red Wagon" children's theatre tour, running since 1971, showcases a long-term commitment to community engagement and theatre outreach across New England.

For inquiries regarding academic programs, admissions, performance schedules, or general information about the UNH Department of Theatre and Dance, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Paul Creative Arts Center, 30 Academic Way, Durham, NH 03824, USA
• Phone: (603) 862-2919
• Mobile Phone: +1 603-862-2919

Visiting the UNH Theatre and Dance website is also highly recommended for detailed information on their season, academic catalog, and specific faculty contacts. The Box Office, located in the Johnson Theatre lobby, is typically open an hour prior to events for ticket purchases.

For residents across New Hampshire, particularly those in the Seacoast region, the UNH Department of Theatre and Dance stands as a remarkably suitable and enriching local resource. Its presence in Durham provides convenient access to a vibrant academic and artistic environment that would otherwise require travel to larger metropolitan areas. This local access to high-quality performing arts is a significant benefit for anyone seeking cultural enrichment or serious training.

The department's commitment to both rigorous academic training and extensive performance opportunities makes it ideal for aspiring artists from our communities. Students are not only taught by "passionate" and "supportive" faculty but also gain invaluable hands-on experience in well-equipped theaters and studios. This comprehensive approach ensures that New Hampshire's talented youth can pursue their artistic dreams right here at home, without sacrificing quality.

Beyond its academic role, the UNH Department of Theatre and Dance serves as a vital cultural hub for the broader New Hampshire community. Its diverse season of productions, ranging from classic plays to contemporary dance concerts, offers accessible and engaging entertainment for all ages. Programs like the "Little Red Wagon" and "ArtsReach" extend the magic of theatre directly into local schools and communities, fostering a love for the arts from a young age and showcasing the talents of UNH students directly to their neighbors. While the physical building might be a little confusing to navigate at first, the immense value derived from the performances and the dedication of the people within more than compensates.

In essence, the UNH Department of Theatre and Dance is more than just a university department; it's a dynamic cultural force in New Hampshire. It cultivates local talent, provides accessible entertainment, and contributes significantly to the artistic vitality of our state, making it an indispensable part of our local landscape for anyone passionate about theatre and dance.

UNH Department of Theatre and Dance

Paul Creative Arts Center, 30 Academic Way, Durham, NH 03824, USA