Performing Arts Programs in New Hampshire

Getting a Performing Arts Degree in New Hampshire

A Performing Arts Degree in New Hampshire equips students with comprehensive training in Theater, Dance, Music, and Acting. Prospective students may choose among various academic pathways—from Bachelor of Arts programs focusing on practical performance skills to interdisciplinary studies that integrate theory and hands-on projects. This guide explains what a Performing Arts Degree entails, outlines local education options, and reviews crucial details such as accreditation and financial aid.

Why Pursue a Performing Arts Degree in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a rich cultural environment with an active scene in theater, dance, and musical performance. The state’s official website, New Hampshire.gov, provides extensive insights into local arts initiatives and community engagement. The performing arts industry supports diverse career paths, and according to the job outlook for Actors on bls.gov, opportunities in theater production and related fields are steadily growing. Average salaries and projected job growth for roles such as actors, directors, stage managers, and choreographers can be further explored on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs

Admission to performing arts programs in New Hampshire generally requires:

  • A minimum high school GPA, typically around 2.5 to 3.0.
  • Completion of prerequisite courses in relevant subjects.
  • Participation in auditions, portfolio reviews, or interviews.
  • Some programs, such as the University of New Hampshire’s Acting/Directing option, mandate a specific audition and a minimum GPA of 3.0 for transfer students.
  • Keene State College’s Dance program requires an audition or portfolio review for dance specializations.

Typical Program Curriculum

Performing Arts programs in New Hampshire combine theoretical studies with practical training. Students can expect courses in acting, directing, dance technique, music theory, and stagecraft. Programs typically run four years for a Bachelor’s degree and offer concentrations in Acting, Dance, Music, or Technical Theater. Hands-on projects, capstone performances, and practicum experiences are integral components, with specialized initiatives such as the UNH PowerPLAY Company internship program and the Keene State Dance Festival.

Performing Arts Programs in New Hampshire

Below are three prominent institutions offering Performing Arts programs:

  1. University of New Hampshire (UNH) – Durham, NH

    • Program: B.A. in Theatre: Acting and Directing Option
    • Details: Includes courses in acting, directing, voice, movement, stagecraft, a practicum, and a capstone project. Auditions are required, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for transfer students.
    • Program Page: UNH Theatre Program
    • Cost & Financial Aid: Institutional scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 annually and the Performance Arts Enrichment Initiative (PAEI) provide funding support.

  2. Keene State College – Keene, NH

    • Program: B.A. in Theatre and Dance
    • Details: Offers specializations in Choreography & Performance, Dance Education, and K-12 Dance Education. The program integrates liberal arts with practical performance experiences and requires an audition or portfolio review. A minimum high school GPA of 2.5 is expected.
    • Program Page: Keene State Theatre and Dance
    • Cost & Financial Aid: Dance-specific scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually, along with federal Pell Grant options for eligible students.

  3. Dartmouth College – Hanover, NH

    • Program: Performing Arts Studies
    • Details: Although primarily a liberal arts institution, Dartmouth offers a robust curriculum in performing arts, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies and performance projects.
    • Address: Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
    • Program Page: Dartmouth College Arts
    • Benefits: Hanover is known for its collegiate environment and strong arts culture, hosting events and festivals that enrich the learning experience.

Performing Arts Employment Opportunities in New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s cultural landscape features several major performing arts institutions:

  • The Palace Theatre – Manchester, NH
    A historic venue hosting a diverse array of live performances from theater productions to musical concerts. Visit the official website’s employment section for current openings.

  • The Music Hall – Portsmouth, NH
    Recognized for its eclectic programming, The Music Hall is an essential part of Portsmouth’s arts scene. Employment opportunities and auditions are routinely posted on its official site.

  • Local Dance Companies and Theatre Troupes
    Regional theaters and touring companies across the state continually seek talent in acting, dance, and technical theater roles. Detailed recruiter information and application processes can be found on the respective institutions’ official pages.

For comprehensive career statistics and job outlook data related to acting and other performance professions, refer to the job outlook for Actors on bls.gov.

Professional Development and Networking

Aspiring performing arts professionals in New Hampshire can enhance their careers by engaging with several organizations:

  • National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST): Provides accreditation and professional development opportunities. Visit NAST.
  • New Hampshire State Council on the Arts: Supports arts education and supplies grants between $500 and $10,000 for student projects. More information is available at NH Arts.
  • New Hampshire Higher Education Commission: Coordinates state policies and funding for higher education. Learn more at NH HigherEd.
  • Additionally, national bodies such as the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) offer grants and resources for performing artists.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of pursuing a Performing Arts Degree in New Hampshire varies by institution. At UNH, financial support includes scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year and specialized funding through initiatives like PAEI. Keene State College offers dance-specific scholarships between $1,000 and $5,000 and supports federal Pell Grants for qualifying students. Prospective students are advised to explore additional financial aid resources provided by the U.S. Department of Education and studentaid.gov.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a Performing Arts Degree in New Hampshire have various career paths, including roles in theater, film, television, dance, music, and technical production. Common career opportunities include acting, directing, stage management, choreography, and dance education. Internships such as the UNH PowerPLAY Company, which requires portfolio reviews and interviews with a deadline of February 15 annually, and the Keene State Dance Festival, with a choreography submission deadline of April 1, are valuable stepping stones to professional careers.

Get Started Today

Prospective students are encouraged to take the next step in their professional journey by contacting a school to explore available programs. With enriching curricula, hands-on training, and robust professional networks, New Hampshire offers a supportive environment for budding performing arts professionals. Begin your journey today and seize the opportunity to specialize in Theater, Dance, Music, or Acting.