Miss NH getting ready to compete in Miss America competition

By KIMBERLEY HAAS
Union Leader Correspondent
August 20. 2018 7:39PM

Miss New Hampshire Marisa Moorhouse is hoping to dance her way into the hearts of the judges at Miss America. She leaves for the national scholarship competition next week. (Courtesy of Miss New Hampshire) 

DERRY — Miss New Hampshire Marisa Moorhouse is preparing to head to Atlantic City next week to compete in Miss America.

Moorhouse, 18, of Manchester, says her wardrobe is ready and she is preparing for her interview with the judges by reading the newspaper every day.

With all the changes in the Miss America program this year, Moorhouse hopes to highlight her ability to be flexible during the interview process.

“I definitely want to show off that I’m a free spirit and I’m really good when it comes to change,” Moorhouse said.

In June, Miss America program officials announced it will no longer be known as a beauty pageant and eliminated the fitness in swimsuit portion of the contest. Board of Directors Chairwoman Gretchen Carlson said at the time that contestants would no longer be judged by their physical appearance.

Moorhouse said Monday morning that decision empowers women.

“When I think about future Miss Americas, I don’t think about a body type or hair color. What comes to mind is a powerful woman empowering other powerful women,” Moorhouse said.

Moorhouse said talent will be more heavily emphasized during preliminary rounds, which excites her because dance is not only what she performs but is also part of her platform, “Arts in Motion.”

Moorhouse has traveled across the state teaching children how to dance, visiting schools as well as Boys and Girls Clubs.

For her talent at Miss America, Moorhouse will perform to “Respect” by Aretha Franklin, a decision she made before the Queen of Soul died Thursday.

Moorhouse said the inspiration for her routine comes from her former high school classmates who didn’t understand Moorhouse’s responsibilities as a title holder. She recalled being mocked for running through the hallways at Manchester Memorial High School in heels to make it to class after events and interviews.

Moorhouse said she put up with the lack of respect because being involved in the Miss America program was a positive experience for her.

“It was an outlet for me to meet new friends and get involved in my community,” Moorhouse said.

Moorhouse leaves for Atlantic City next Tuesday. A candidates arrival ceremony will be held Thursday at 4 p.m.

Preliminary competitions will be held Sept. 5, 6 and 7 and the beloved Show Us Your Shoes Parade is Sept. 8.

The Miss America competition will air live on ABC on Sept. 9 at 9 p.m.

http://www.unionleader.com/article/20180821/NEWS23/180829945