New England Dance Ensemble: A Londonderry Tradition of Excellence

New England Dance Ensemble Introduce

For generations of dancers and arts enthusiasts in New Hampshire, the name New England Dance Ensemble (NEDE) has been synonymous with excellence, artistry, and a deep commitment to the community. Located right here in Londonderry, NEDE is far more than just a dance school; it is a distinguished non-profit dance company that has been a pillar of the local arts scene since its establishment in 1986. Under the visionary direction of founder Barbara Mullen, NEDE's unique mission is to bring together the talents of dedicated local pre-professional dancers with seasoned, currently performing professionals from national and international companies. This fusion of emerging talent and established artistry creates an unparalleled training and performance environment that is a true gift to our region.

New England Dance Ensemble is the resident dance company at the Londonderry Dance Academy, offering a seamless pathway for aspiring dancers to hone their skills in a rigorous yet supportive setting. However, its reach extends beyond the academy, as NEDE holds annual auditions to welcome dancers from all over the area, creating a diverse and vibrant collective of artists. This inclusivity is a hallmark of the company's ethos, ensuring that a wide array of talented individuals have the chance to experience professional-level performance opportunities. For local families, this means having access to world-class dance training and productions right in our own backyard, without the need to travel to larger metropolitan areas.

One of the things that makes NEDE so special is its dedication to presenting thought-provoking and high-quality productions. The company is renowned for its annual presentations of beloved classics, as well as powerful, socially conscious works. The ability to perform traditional classical ballet repertoire alongside contemporary choreography gives NEDE members a well-rounded and comprehensive performing experience. They become knowledgeable not only about dance technique but also about composers, choreographers, the history of dance, and the intricate details of costuming and stage make-up. This holistic approach to dance education sets NEDE apart and prepares its members for a future in the arts or simply provides them with a profound appreciation for the craft.

The productions staged by New England Dance Ensemble are a highlight of the local cultural calendar and showcase the incredible talent nurtured within our state. These performances are more than just a showcase of skill; they are often a collaborative effort that enriches both the performers and the audience. The fusion of pre-professional and professional dancers on stage provides invaluable mentorship and inspiration, a unique learning opportunity that is difficult to find elsewhere. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need to go to a major city to find incredible dance training and performances; we have it right here in Londonderry.

For parents and students alike, choosing New England Dance Ensemble means becoming part of a community that values dedication, artistry, and education. It’s a place where young dancers can grow both on and off the stage, building confidence, discipline, and a lifelong passion for dance. The company's non-profit status also underscores its mission to serve the community, ensuring that its focus remains on artistic and educational goals rather than commercial ones.

Location and Accessibility

New England Dance Ensemble is located at 21 Buttrick Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053, USA. The studio’s location in Londonderry makes it a central and convenient destination for families from across southern New Hampshire. It is easily accessible by car, and the surrounding area offers a straightforward commute. A key feature that enhances the experience for all visitors is the wheelchair-accessible car park. This thoughtful provision ensures that the facility is welcoming to everyone in the community, removing a potential barrier and making it easy for families and guests with mobility concerns to attend rehearsals, performances, or drop off and pick up students. This commitment to accessibility reflects the inclusive spirit of the company, which aims to provide opportunities for all aspiring dancers and audiences. The convenient location and accessible facilities are a testament to NEDE’s dedication to serving the local community and creating a welcoming environment for all.

Services Offered

Ballet Classes and Training: As a dance school, NEDE offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on classical ballet. This includes training in proper body alignment, technique, and musicality, providing a strong foundation for all other dance styles.
Pre-Professional Dance Opportunities: NEDE provides a pre-professional training program that prepares serious students for a career in dance. The company structure, which includes local pre-professional dancers alongside established professionals, offers a unique mentorship model.
Performance Repertoire: The ensemble performs a diverse range of works, including traditional classical ballet repertoire and contemporary choreography. This exposure to various styles enriches the dancers' skills and provides a well-rounded artistic experience.
Annual Productions: NEDE is well-known for its three major annual productions. These include the beloved holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” and the award-winning, educationally significant work, “A Child's View of The Holocaust.” The company also presents a “Story Dance Touring Company” production, bringing dance to a wider audience.
Educational and Community Outreach: The company’s non-profit status enables it to present its productions as educational tools for the community. The impactful work, "A Child's View of the Holocaust," is a prime example of this mission, serving to memorialize victims and educate audiences.

Features / Highlights

Good for Kids: The studio is recognized as being "Good for kids," signifying its positive and encouraging environment for young dancers. The focus on mentorship and education, combined with a supportive atmosphere, makes it an ideal place for children to learn and grow.
Professional and Pre-Professional Collaboration: This is the core of NEDE's mission. The opportunity for local dancers to perform alongside professional artists is a rare and invaluable feature that distinguishes the company from others in the region. It provides real-world experience and inspiration.
Diverse and Meaningful Productions: NEDE's performance calendar is a highlight, featuring a mix of a major classical work ("The Nutcracker") and powerful, original contemporary ballets ("A Child's View of the Holocaust"). These productions not only showcase talent but also serve an important educational and artistic purpose.
Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: The accessibility of the facility, specifically the wheelchair-accessible parking, makes the studio inclusive and welcoming for all community members, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors with mobility needs.
Accepts Debit Cards: As a practical feature, the ability to pay with debit cards simplifies the payment process for new and returning students and their families, adding a layer of convenience to the experience.

Contact Information

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

Phone: (603) 537-9799

What is worth choosing

For New Hampshire families seeking more than just a recreational dance class, New England Dance Ensemble offers a unique and enriching experience. What truly makes NEDE worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to combining top-tier professional artistry with local community talent. This model provides an unparalleled learning environment where young dancers are not only taught technique but are also given the profound opportunity to perform alongside working professionals. This mentorship is invaluable, providing students with real-world insights and inspiration that go far beyond the typical studio setting.

The ensemble's dedication to producing a wide range of works—from a holiday classic like "The Nutcracker" to the critically acclaimed "A Child's View of the Holocaust"—is another powerful reason to choose them. This commitment to both entertainment and education demonstrates a sophisticated and meaningful approach to the arts. It shows that NEDE is not just about dance steps; it’s about storytelling, history, and using the power of performance to engage with important themes. For parents, this means their children are not only gaining a skill but are also becoming part of a larger artistic and cultural conversation.

Furthermore, the fact that NEDE is a non-profit organization focused on serving the community is a testament to its values. The company's goal is to engage the community, increase access to dance, and foster a lifelong interest in the arts, regardless of age or ability. This mission-driven approach ensures that every class and every production is infused with purpose. By enrolling your child or attending a performance, you are supporting a local institution that is genuinely committed to making a positive impact. The accessible facilities and kid-friendly environment further underscore this community-first approach, making it a welcoming and inclusive space for all. In short, NEDE is worth choosing because it provides an exceptional, well-rounded, and professionally-minded dance experience right here in Londonderry, a rare gem in the New Hampshire arts landscape.