What Does a Volunteer Usher Do?
It is the ushers who give the first and most lasting impression the patrons receive when attending the Orpheum Theatre for a performance. Ushers are hosts and hostesses who have the primary responsibility of ensuring the Theatre patrons are provided a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience during their visit. Ushers are also “Theatre preservationists” because they must carefully monitor the Theater during each event to ensure the Orpheum’s unique ambiance is not inadvertently damaged by a patron. Volunteers should be comfortable interacting with the public in a professional and courteous manner, be team players, and have an interest in the arts. Usher duties include handing out programs, helping patrons find their assigned seats, providing assistance during an emergency evacuation and any other duties requested by the City of Phoenix Event Representative in charge of that particular performance at the Theatre. The Orpheum Theatre is a multi-use facility with a season consisting of 30-50 events per year (normally September through May), including many diverse community cultural events. Each of these events requires volunteers, who are in addition to the paid group of people who work these events. There is no better way to see quality entertainment than to be an Usher Volunteer at the Orpheum.
Who Are We Looking For?
We are looking for individuals, 18 years of age or older, who have good customer service skills and who enjoy attending quality arts events. Although we do not require a specific number of times you are required to usher each month, twice a month is recommended. Above all, we need responsible individuals who will honor their volunteering commitment. The service Friends volunteers render to the patrons must be courteous and polite. We require the volunteers be well groomed and dressed in a white unadorned long sleeved shirt or blouse with a collar and plain dress black pants or skirt. Black shoes must have a closed toe and heel and be worn with black socks or nylons. Each usher is required to carry a small flashlight, along with paper and pen. The Friends will provide an Orpheum Theatre Bola tie and maroon vest which will be kept in the Usher room. A nametag will also be provided, and should be taken home after each performance.
How Will I Know What to Do?
The Friends provides a two hour Volunteer Orientation/Training session that includes a complete tour of the Theatre. Training sessions are held on an “as needed” basis. If you are interested in finding out more, or to become a Friends volunteer, call the New Member phone #, 602-257-4300. You can also email us at
Info@FriendsofTheOrpheumTheatre.org. We look forward to hearing from you.
How Much Will It Cost?
There is a nominal tax deductible charge of $20 each year per member, or $30 per couple. When you sign up to become a volunteer, this fee allows you to become a member of the Friends organization. As a self-supporting organization, this fee covers our operating expenses, which include a bi-monthly newsletter, annual volunteer recognition dinner and awards, postage for newsletter and usher sign-ups, cleaning of usher vests,
New Member phone line, and other miscellaneous expenses incurred during the year. The Friends also provide funds to purchase items that enhance the Theatre but might not otherwise be funded by the City of Phoenix. Additionally, these funds are used to purchase tickets to Theatre events for those individuals or organizations that are not otherwise financially able to attend a theatre performance of this kind.