​Volunteer Opportunities

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.

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 assisting Raffle Tent Managers, opening/closing raffle tent, selling raffle tickets, and providing general information to patrons.
Gate Ticket Taker
Assisting Box Office Staff with set up, ticket sales, scanning tickets, handling will-call tickets, and directing patron 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 assisting the Merchandise Manager, help provide excellent customer service by greeting and interacting with patrons, assisting in open/close duties, and selling Big Top & guest artist merchandise. ​​
Usher
​Assist patrons in locating their seats and working with the House Managers to troubleshoot and monitor patrons and possible challenges. Helping to alert House Managers, Security, and Volunteer Coordinator to any medical or security situations. ​
Security
Provide a safety zone for artists & patrons. Follow specific event protocols & monitor the venue/grounds throughout an event. Work with Heads of Security and Volunteer Coordinator. Security volunteers are permitted to bring a plus one the night of the show they are volunteering at. Guest names must be given to the Volunteer Coordinator in advance for entry at the venue ticket gate. ​

*Must attend security training offered at orientations.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Must be prepared to assist and call in Emergency Medical services as needed. ​All incidents need to be documented and brought to the Volunteer coordinator's attention if she/he is not actively involved. ​Must be present for duration of event. EMT volunteers are permitted to bring a plus one the night of the show they are volunteering at. Guest names must be given to the Volunteer Coordinator in advance for entry at the venue ticket gate. 

*EMT volunteers must have a current certification with the State of WI. ​
After Show Clean Up
Assist in cleaning, garbage collection, and recycling after events. Some lifting may be required. All after-show volunteers should check with House Managers or Volunteer Coordinator before leaving. All garbage should be brought outside the tent for pick-up. Recycling clear bags should not be tied. Gloves must be worn. ​
Grounds & Housekeeping
Responsible for reporting and assisting in restroom maintenance, helping to stock supplies, and routine garbage pickup around venue grounds. ​

Volunteer Requirements

Volunteers must meet the following requirements:
  • You must be 16 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. Click here to access the application portal for 2025.
  • 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.

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].