Volunteer Opportunities
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As a non-profit organization, Big Top Chautauqua could not operate without the help of our outstanding volunteers. Volunteers are at the heart of our operations and play a vital role in making certain that every patron has an enjoyable and comfortable experience each time they visit us. Our volunteer program reflects the generous spirit of the individuals who are essential to maintaining and supporting the arts in our community.
If you love the arts and you want to give back on a regular basis, then joining the family of Big Top volunteers is just the ticket for you. With over 60 concerts, shows, and events each season, there’s something to fit everyone’s schedule. We’ll work with you to select the dates you're available, and the positions that interest you.
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Exclusive Benefits
Volunteers are offered the following benefits:
- A pass good for one regular priced BCO+ or Original Big Top show.
- 20% discount on Big Top Merchandise on nights you volunteer.
- Discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages on nights you volunteer.
- Occasional ticket discounts and complimentary ticket offers.
- Invitation to our annual Volunteer Appreciation party.
Volunteer Roles
Info Tent & Raffle
Responsible for opening/closing raffle tent, selling raffle tickets, and providing general information to patrons.
Gate Ticket Taker
Assist patrons with ticket sales, scanning tickets, handling will-call tickets, and directing traffic upon venue entry.
Parking Attendant
Responsible for directing patrons to specific spacing patterns for vehicles and buses, accessible parking, & VIP parking.
Welcome Cart
Meet, greet, and safely transport patrons needing special assistance from vehicles to various locations on venue grounds.
Merchandise Tent
Responsible for providing excellent customer service by greeting and interacting with patrons, assisting in open/close duties, selling Big Top & guest artist merchandise.
Usher
Direct patrons and assist in locating their seats, work with House Managers to troubleshoot and monitor patrons and possible challenges.
Security
Provide safety zone for artists & patrons. Follow specific event protocols & monitor venue/grounds through duration of event.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
EMT volunteers must submit current certifications to the Volunteer Coordinator. Must be present for duration of event.
After Show Clean Up
Assist in cleaning, garbage collection, recycling after end of events. Some lifting may be required.
Grounds & Housekeeping
Responsible for restroom maintenance, stocking supplies, routine garbage pickup around venue grounds.
Volunteer Requirements
Volunteers must meet the following requirements:
- You must be 18 years of age or older.
- You must agree to and pass a background check.
- You are required to attend one of the mandatory volunteer orientation sessions.
- You must be willing to volunteer for at least three shows per season, two of which must be house shows.
- You must understand and meet the physical requirements of the position.
- You must follow and adhere to all venue policies and procedures.
Steps To Becoming A Volunteer
Step #1: Submitting the online application form.
- Applications can be submitted via our online portal by clicking here.
- All returning volunteers and first-time volunteers must submit an application every year.
- Complete the application online. Please answer all questions to the best of your ability and if possible, upload a photograph of your choosing as you apply.
- Once your application has been processed and reviewed by our volunteer coordinator, you will receive an email with further information and instructions. Please allow a couple of weeks for processing. If you have questions about your application status, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Anney Olsen, at [email protected].
Step #2: Attending a volunteer orientation session.
- Several orientation sessions will be scheduled during late spring/early summer. Attendance at volunteer orientation is mandatory for all new and returning volunteers. While multiple sessions will be held, you are only required to attend one orientation session.
- Volunteers will receive information regarding orientation dates after their application has been processed. If you cannot make one of the scheduled orientation dates, you must schedule and individual session with the Volunteer Coordinator.
- At orientation you will be issued the volunteer handbook and review what is expected of you as a volunteer and have a question and answer period.
- After completing orientation, new volunteers will be invited to create a SignUpGenius account which will be used to facilitate volunteer scheduling. New volunteers will not receive access to scheduling until they have completed orientation.
Step #3: Registering for events.
- Once an account has been created at SignUpGenius, volunteers are able to add, edit, or review scheduled events easily online.
- Volunteers should review the show schedule and position descriptions to determine their selections.
- Should volunteers need to alter their schedule, they are asked to do so at least two days before an event.
- Further questions regarding scheduling, positions, and orientation sessions can be directed to the Volunteer Coordinator.
Looking For More Information?
For more information about Big Top's volunteer program, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Anney Olson, at [email protected].
