Sparking Connections
Through audio programming and events before live audiences, NHPR seeks to spark connections by introducing New Hampshirites to the key people and issues - local, national, and global - that have an impact on our state and our communities. We provide audiences an opportunity to ask questions and offer feedback - whether in-person or through call-ins, social media messages, or emails. These questions and feedback, in turn, spark connections that shape our on-air programs and podcasts.
Writers on a New England Stage
Author Steven Pinker at Writers on a New England Stage in January, 2019. Photo by David Murray, cleareyephoto.com.
A longstanding partnership with The Music Hall in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, “Writers on a New England Stage” brings world-renowned writers to New Hampshire to share their latest works and thoughts on their craft. Writers then engage in a literary conversation with an NHPR host, who also moderates questions from the audience.
In fiscal year 2018-19, visiting authors included Tommy Orange, Jared Diamond, Steven Pinker, and Doris Kearns Goodwin.
Political forums
Eddie Edwards, the Republican candidate in the CD1 race, answers a question at an NHPR candidate forum as his opponent, Democrat Chris Pappas, looks on. Photo by Allegra Boverman.
NHPR takes seriously its commitment to inform New Hampshire voters about candidates running for political office and their positions on issues that matter to the state. As part of this commitment, in 2018 NHPR held political forums open to the public, and broadcast on The Exchange, with candidates for the 1st Congressional and 2nd Congressional Districts and for the governorship.
In addition, each candidate was invited to participate in two-way interviews, and of course, everyone on NHPR’s reporting staff joined in coverage of the 2018 mid-term elections.
Hall-Kenyon PRIZE IN AMERICAN POETRY
Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith talks to NHPR’s Peter Biello at the 2018 Hall-Kenyon Poetry prize event. Photo by NHPR staff.
US Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith accepted the 2018 Hall-Kenyon Prize in American Poetry before a sold-out audience at the Currier Museum of Art on December 12. After reading from her newest collection of poetry, Wade in the Water, Smith talked with NHPR’s Peter Biello about her work, her experience as Poet Laureate, and her effort to bring poetry to underserved communities.
In the last few years, NHPR has been the lead organization supporting this annual poetry award. The award pays homage to renowned New Hampshire poets Donald Hall and Jane Kenyon and seeks to recognize the talents of other poets.