VOLUNTEER
Volunteers are at the heart of our operation. As a non-profit organization, Big Top relies on the generous spirit of our neighbors to bring the “Big Blue Tent” to life each summer. 

​Interested in joining the family of Big Top Volunteers? 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.
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
  • An invitation to our special end-of-season volunteer appreciation party
POSITIONS
Raffle/info tent attendant
Responsible for opening/closing raffle tent, selling raffle tickets, and providing general information to patrons.
merchandise tent clerk
Responsible for assisting in open/close duties, selling Big Top & guest artist merchandise. ​
front gate attendant
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.
usher
​Assist patrons in locating their seats, work with House Managers to troubleshoot and monitor patrons and possible challenges.
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. ​
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. There are designated seats in the venue for each EMT.
STEPS TO BECOMING A VOLUNTEER
step #1: BEFORE APPLYING you must meet the following requirements
  • All Big Top volunteers must agree to a background check.  
  • Volunteers are required to work at least three shows per season, which includes two house shows. 
  • You must be available to attend a volunteer orientation in the Spring if you are a new volunteer or did not volunteer in 2022. 
  • You must understand and meet the physical requirements of the position. These include but are not limited to assisting patrons in wheelchairs when needed, standing for long periods of time, and having the ability to work different positions around the venue. 
  • You must follow and adhere to all venue policies and procedures. 
Step #2: submitting an application
  • ​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.
  • After submitting your application, you will receive an email from our volunteer coordinator confirming your information is being processed. 
STEP #3: ATTENDING A VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION
  • Orientation sessions are typically conducted in late spring. All new volunteers and volunteers who did not work in 2022 must attend an orientation before they can work an event. While multiple sessions will be held, you are only required to attend one orientation session.
  • The Volunteer Coordinator will send out detailed information regarding orientation dates. If you are unable to attend the orientation date, but are still interested in volunteering, please let the Volunteer Coordinator know so that you may receive training at a later date. 
  • 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 #4: 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 sessionscan be directed to the Volunteer Coordinator.
Check back in the new year to apply for the 2024 season. 
 
Looking for more information? 



Anney Olson, Volunteer Coordinator
anney@bigtop.org | 715-779-1114