Pontine Theatre

Pontine Theatre creates and produces original stage works with a multidisciplinary focus. Using technical training rooted in the actor training system of French actor, Etienne Decroux, and extensive design experience with puppetry, masks and toy theatre, the company creates works that explore the interactions of the individual with community, landscape and history.

Now in its 49th season, Pontine has been based in Portsmouth since its founding in 1977. Pontine Theatre currently operates out of the 1845 Plains School. This historic one-room schoolhouse was renovated, in 2017, into an intimate performance space, in collaboration with the City of Portsmouth and is now Pontine’s permanent home. Each season Pontine Theatre produces a performance series on the seacoast consisting of premieres of new works by the company, revivals from repertoire and performances by visiting artists. Many of Pontine's original works are based on regional history and literature. The company has created original stagings of works by Robert Frost, Sarah Orne Jewett, Donald Hall, Celia Thaxter and Nathaniel Hawthorne, among others. Other productions have explored such themes as Trancendentalism, The Shakers, the plight of New England Textile workers and the legends and lore of the Isles of Shoals. 

Pontine Theatre also tours throughout New Hampshire and neighboring states, offering performances for largely rural audiences at public libraries, museums, community centers, assisted living communities and senior centers. Each season, the company works with foundations and corporate sponsors to bring artistic and educational programs to under-served audiences. Pontine enjoys ongoing support from the National Endowment for the Arts in recognition of the quality and impact of its regional touring programs