Volunteer
Photo of Kelli Simpkins and Ayana Workman in Everybody by DJ Corey.
Thank you for your interest in getting involved with STC. Our dedicated volunteers play an essential role in the daily operations of our theatre. Would you like to join us?
To become an usher at STC:
STEP ONE: Please read the Expectations of Being an Usher below and then email Usher@ShakespeareTheatre.org with the following information:
- Your full name, address, email, phone number, and confirmation that you are over the age of 18.
- Do you have previous ushering experience? (Not required.)
STEP THREE: Complete a trial ushering assignment. We may pair you with a more experienced usher for your trial shift.
STC will then notify you of your acceptance and provide instructions on how to sign up for future shows.
QUESTIONS? Please email us.
Expectations of Ushers
- Create a welcoming environment for our guests.
- Usher our mainstage shows (typically one performance per production).
- Represent STC in a positive manner.
- Make a commitment to fulfill your duties as assigned.
- Be able to read seat numbers on tickets and provide directions to seats.
- Be able to stand for up to one hour.
- Arrive 90 minutes prior to the performance.
- Provide at least 24-hour notice if you need to cancel your ushering assignment.
- Have a working email address that can be used for usher-related correspondence.
- Adhere to the instructions of the House Managers at all times.
- Adhere to the Usher Dress Code (business), including appropriate footwear.
- Return to your assigned station for all of intermission.
- Please note: You must be at least 18 years old to volunteer.
Usher Benefits
- Seeing the performance you usher for (we cannot guarantee that you will be seated).
- 10% off tuition for STC Classes.
- 10% off merchandise at the gift shop.
- Complimentary coffee or tea during each STC mainstage production you work (consumed before the lobby opens to the public).
- The opportunity to usher at booked in events (private events, The Washington Ballet, Washington Performing Arts Society, etc.).
Signing Up For Usher Shifts
After completing Usher Orientation, ushers may use SignUpGenius to sign up for ushering shifts.
See below for guides on using SignUpGenius:
Frequently Asked Questions
Please email us. If a last minute cancellation is necessary you may be able to reach the Box Office at 202.547.1122 to leave a message if available. Messages left on this line may not be checked until the next day, so email is the best way to get in touch.
Note: If you miss more than two ushering dates without providing 24 hours' notice, you will be removed from the usher list.
We make every effort to seat our ushers; however, during sold-out performances, it may not be possible, and you may need to watch the performance from a lobby monitor. Please note that you are not expected to stay for the entire performance if you are not seated.
Dress code for ushers is business attire, which means dress slacks, a skirt or dress, button-down shirt, collared shirt or sweater. Close-toed shoes you can comfortably walk in are encouraged (athletic shoes are fine). We do not require black and white clothing, although it is acceptable. Please note that the following attire is prohibited for ushers:
- Jeans
- Shorts or Mini Skirts
- T-shirts
- Sweatshirts
- Any clothing with slogans or logos
- Athletic attire (including yoga wear)
If you are ushering at the Klein Theatre, please wait in the Rotunda Lobby until House Management opens the doors. Please do not approach the Box Office unless purchasing tickets. We will gather for a brief orientation.
If you are ushering at Harman Hall, you may enter the main lobby and check in at the reception desk, then follow instructions from the house manager. We will gather for a brief orientation.
We look forward to meeting you.