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Responsibilities and Expectations

The volunteer event staff of the Center for the Performing Arts provide a service to guests and staff at a variety of functions. These events are held at Eisenhower Auditorium and other venues.

Responsibilities

Volunteer responsibilities include:

  • help provide a safe and comfortable environment
  • show a friendly and proactive attitude toward all
  • be alert to what is happening, recognize issues, and provide assistance to guests and staff as needed
  • respect and assist patrons with disabilities or special needs, and alert them to available resources such as sensory bags, quiet room, etc.
  • alert visitors to potential performance issues such as smoke, strobe effects, strong language, etc.
  • show calmness and authority when dealing with emergencies or with anxious or upset visitors
  • enforce house policies regarding food, backpacks, photography, strollers, etc.
  • be sufficiently familiar with the building, campus, parking systems, etc. to answer questions and give directions
  • volunteer for entertainment events such as performances, concerts, dance programs, etc.
  • volunteer for academic events such as introductions to campus, award ceremonies, student activities, meetings, commencements, etc.
  • be dependable and on time: arrive at least 1 hour before a scheduled event and stay for at least 30 minutes afterward (a typical evening event could mean 6:30–10:00 p.m.)
  • work in a team and accept direction from those in authority including senior volunteers and student staff
  • recognize when situations require assistance from other staff
  • adhere to uniform and dress codes
  • attend a sensory inclusivity training program and the annual training meeting held in early fall

Expectations

Volunteers should be able, with reasonable accommodation, to do the following:

  • walk and stand for an hour on a slanted floor or in balcony levels
  • manage steps
  • communicate with patrons with special needs
  • give directions, read tickets, answer questions
  • distribute programs, handle flashlights, retrieve lost items, etc.
  • smile until your face hurts!

Please Note

  • We schedule a semester at a time, and there is no minimum requirement.
  • All volunteers receive complimentary parking for events.
  • The center’s main venue is Eisenhower Auditorium. We also sometimes hold events in other locations such as Recital Hall (in the School of Music), Pasquerilla Spiritual Center, Theatre Building, and various locations at the HUB-Robeson Center, etc.
  • All staff are required to attend an annual training (usually held in September).
  • Volunteer Event Staff are required to adhere to the dress code (discussed at the interview session) and become familiar with the handbook. Don’t worry, we train you, and we’re patient, friendly people!