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Sarah Hoover
PhD Candidate, Centre for Drama, Theatre & Performance at NUI Galway
Professional Background
Sarah Hoover is an accomplished professional in the fields of theatre and nonprofit consultancy, with a remarkable trajectory that showcases her dedication to the arts and education. Currently, Sarah is a PhD Candidate at the Centre for Drama, Theatre & Performance at NUI Galway where she passionately explores the intersection of gaming and theatre through her thesis titled "Gaming Audiences into Theatre: Participatory Aesthetics and Philosophy." Her innovative research combines her love for theatre with modern multimedia experiences, positioning her as a thought leader in this emerging area of performance studies.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Sarah has made significant contributions to various arts organizations. She has served as a Senior Reader at Fishamble: The New Play Company in Dublin, where she played a crucial role in the evaluation and development of new theatrical works. Sarah's expertise in theatre extends into the nonprofit sector as well; she provides consultancy services for organizations such as Rooftop Sessions and Moonfish Theatre, focusing on startup development, fundraising strategies, and organizational effectiveness.
Through her extensive experience, Sarah has honed her skills in website content and design, particularly with a specialization in the arts. This unique blend of skills enables her to support nonprofits in reaching their audiences more effectively, showcasing her commitment to the cultural sector and ensuring the sustainable growth of arts organizations.
Education and Achievements
Sarah's educational journey laid a solid foundation for her successful career in theatre and business. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and Business Administration from Mount Mercy College, where she developed an understanding of both the artistic and operational aspects of performing arts organizations. Following this, Sarah furthered her education at Maynooth University and the Gaiety School of Acting, earning a Master’s program in Theatre with First Class Honors and graduating at the top of her class. This accomplishment reflects her academic excellence and her commitment to her craft.
In recognition of her academic potential, Sarah has been awarded the prestigious Irish Research Council Scholarship, providing her with four years of funding for her PhD program at NUI Galway. This scholarship not only underscores her academic abilities but also highlights the significance of her research within the academic community. Her contributions to theatre research have positioned her as a rising star in the field, bringing new insights into audience engagement and participation within theatrical contexts.
Achievements
Sarah Hoover's achievements exemplify her passion for the arts and her dedication to advancing both her knowledge and the organizations she collaborates with. Some of her recent celebrations include:
- Being a Senior Reader at Fishamble: The New Play Company, Dublin, where her critical insights have supported the development of innovative theatre productions.
- Receiving the Irish Research Council Scholarship, which demonstrates her potential as a leading scholar in the field of theatre research.
- Achieving 1st Class Honors, top of class at Maynooth University / Gaiety School of Acting Master's program, showcasing her dedication to academic excellence and her commitment to mastering the art of theatre.
As a consultant, Sarah has played vital roles in aiding various organizations in strategic planning and fundraising, ensuring their missions are fulfilled effectively while also navigating the complexities inherent in the arts sector. Her previous positions, including Executive Director at Bartell Theatre Foundation and Director of Special Projects & Administration at Downtown Madison, Inc., illustrate her versatility and depth of knowledge in both theatre production and nonprofit management.
In addition to her leadership roles, Sarah has served as the Information & Education Manager at the Colorado Nonprofit Association, where she worked to uplift and support nonprofit initiatives through education and outreach, reinforcing her commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community. Through her early career as a Lab & Field Technician at Terracon Consultants, Sarah developed a diverse skill set that she has continuously leveraged in her current roles.
With an expansive background in theatre and nonprofit consultancy, Sarah Hoover stands out as a dynamic force in both academia and the arts community. Her academic achievements, coupled with her hands-on experience in management and consultancy, make her a valuable asset to any organization or community focused on advancing the arts. As she continues her journey, Sarah is poised to make significant contributions to the fields of theatre and audience engagement, inspiring future generations of artists and audiences alike.
