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.

Pontine has operated out of 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.xtPontine Theatre also tours throughout New Hampshire and neighboring states, offering performances and related educational programs for largely rural audiences. Programs are produced at public libraries, museums, community centers and facilities serving senior citizens. Each season, the company works with foundations and corporate sponsors to bring artistic and educational programs to underserved audiences.