2013 Governors Arts Awards

Community Impact Award
Award Recipient: Peter Ramsey, Executive Director of the Palace Theatre; Manchester, NH

The Palace Theatre is one of the top regional theatres in New England and a major force in the creative economy of southern New Hampshire. Executive Director Peter Ramsey’s expertise has led the theatre through significant improvements to the facility and the creation of varied programming that ranges from showcasing nationally known artists to community-based productions. His strong commitment to building new audiences has led to the creation of diverse programs and opportunities for young people to experience and participate in theatre. In 2012, The Palace Theatre was presented with the Outstanding Historic Theatre Award from the League of Historic American Theatres, for outstanding preservation, restoration and sustainable operation of a historic theatre in North America.

As former Governor Stephen Merrill commented in his support letter, “Having lived in Manchester for decades, I know that the quality and diverse programming at the Palace attracts thousands to this area and has a positive economic impact on local businesses and culture. In this day and age where there are broad options for entertainment, it is a tremendous asset to the New Hampshire to be able to intimately experience live theater in a beautiful historic facility.”

Last updated: November 14, 2013