Goel Center for Theater and Dance

- 50 Court St, Exeter, NH 03833

Nestled in the picturesque town of Exeter, New Hampshire, the Goel Center for Theater and Dance stands as a modern "temple to the performing arts," a phrase fittingly used by a community member to describe this magnificent venue. This state-of-the-art facility, located on the campus of the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy, has quickly become a beacon for live performances in the region. It's not just a place for students to practice and perform; it's a world-class venue that brings a level of artistic excellence rarely seen outside of major cities to our very own backyard. The Goel Center is a testament to the idea that a love for theater and dance can thrive in a collaborative environment, blending professional-level productions with the raw energy and enthusiasm of young, aspiring artists.

The Goel Center is a true architectural marvel, designed to be a hub of creativity and learning. It features a variety of spaces dedicated to the performing arts, each one meticulously designed to foster artistic growth and collaboration. The mainstage theater, a modified proscenium venue with 350 seats, is perfect for a range of productions, from dramatic plays to full-scale musicals and dance recitals. Beyond this main space, the facility includes an intimate Actors' Lab with seating for 149, a dedicated dance performance studio with a sprung floor and 119 seats, and a second dance studio for classes and rehearsals. This multi-space design allows for a constant flow of activity and ensures that the center is always buzzing with creative energy. It's a place where students and faculty seamlessly transition from table discussions in a Harkness setting to performance exercises, creating a truly integrated learning experience. The building also houses a comprehensive scene shop and costume studio, providing students with hands-on experience in every aspect of production. This emphasis on process, as much as on the final product, is what makes the Goel Center so special.

The Goel Center for Theater and Dance is conveniently located at 50 Court Street, Exeter, NH 03833, USA. Its position on the campus of Phillips Exeter Academy makes it a well-known and easily accessible destination for local residents and visitors from across New Hampshire. The design of the building and its surrounding landscape was intentionally crafted to serve as a gateway, connecting the academic side of the campus with the athletic facilities and housing. This not only makes the theater a central part of the campus but also enhances accessibility for the entire community. For patrons with mobility needs, the Goel Center is thoughtfully equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a night at the theater comfortably and without a fuss. The presence of well-maintained toilet facilities further contributes to the convenience and comfort of all who visit. The thoughtful design and easy accessibility make the Goel Center a welcoming and inviting space for all members of the community.

The Goel Center for Theater and Dance provides a rich array of services, primarily centered around its mission to elevate the performing arts experience for both students and the public. These services include:

• Presenting live performances, including plays, musicals, and dance concerts.
• Hosting a variety of productions from the Phillips Exeter Academy Department of Theater and Dance.
• Offering a venue for live events that are open to the public, drawing in the wider New Hampshire community.
• Providing dedicated performance spaces, including a mainstage theater, an Actors' Lab, and a dance performance studio.
• Facilitating learning and collaboration through technical studios, classrooms, and rehearsal spaces.
• Offering professional-level production resources, such as scene and costume shops.
• Supporting student-run organizations, like Dramat, with their own dedicated space for experimentation and rehearsal.

The calendar of events at the Goel Center is always exciting, with a consistent schedule of productions that showcase the incredible talent of the students and faculty. The availability of multiple performance spaces means there's always something new and different to experience, from intimate, experimental productions in the Actors' Lab to large-scale shows on the mainstage. This variety ensures that the Goel Center is a dynamic and ever-changing destination for theater and dance enthusiasts.

Several features and highlights make the Goel Center for Theater and Dance a truly exceptional place for live performances in New Hampshire. These are the qualities that consistently earn it high praise from its audience.

• Live Performances of Exceptional Quality: As noted by a reviewer who called a performance "astonishing" and a "triumph," the quality of the productions at the Goel Center often exceeds expectations. The combination of state-of-the-art facilities and a talented student body results in shows that feel professional and polished, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
• Architectural Beauty and Innovative Design: The building itself is a work of art. Its beautiful architecture and innovative design, which embraces the concept of a "beehive" with social spaces that offer glimpses of the creative activity within, make the experience of simply being in the building wonderful. This unique design approach celebrates the entire creative process, from rehearsal to performance.
• A Collaborative and Educational Environment: The center is a place where students learn about producing, directing, acting, performing, and most of all, collaborating. The ability to see "kids in it (finally!) doing their thing" is a highlight for many community members, as it demonstrates the theater’s purpose as a place of learning and growth.
• Excellent Sightlines: With a seating arrangement in the mainstage theater designed for excellent visibility, patrons can enjoy a fantastic view of the stage from nearly any seat. This thoughtful design ensures that every audience member has an immersive and enjoyable experience.
• Comprehensive Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance make the center an inclusive venue for everyone in the community. This commitment to accessibility is a crucial feature that ensures the arts are open to all.

For more information on show schedules, tickets, and general inquiries, you can contact the Goel Center for Theater and Dance directly. The address is 50 Court Street, Exeter, NH 03833, USA. You can also reach the center's administration by phone at (603) 772-4311. This direct line of contact ensures that you can get the most up-to-date information on upcoming plays and dance productions, and find out about any public events. The staff is always ready to assist and provide details to help you plan your visit.

What is truly worth choosing about the Goel Center for Theater and Dance is its unique position as a world-class performing arts venue that is deeply rooted in our local community. It is a place where professional-level artistry and the spirit of collaboration intersect. The stellar quality of the productions, often described with words like "fantastic" and "superb" by attendees, proves that you don't have to travel to a major city to experience top-tier theater and dance. It’s a defining experience for many, as one reviewer noted, and it's all happening right here in New Hampshire. The Goel Center is a place where you can witness the future of the performing arts taking shape, as young people learn not just to act and dance, but to produce, direct, and collaborate. The building itself is an inspiration, and the performances it hosts are a source of pride for our region. By supporting the Goel Center, you're not just buying a ticket to a show; you're investing in a legacy of artistic excellence and helping to foster the next generation of creative minds. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the arts and wants to see exciting things happening in our community.

Goel Center for Theater and Dance

50 Court St, Exeter, NH 03833, USA