ACTOR/THEATRICAL INTERPRETER

About the role

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational institution founded in 1926. Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, it is one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the United States. Its mission is to preserve and restore 18th-century Williamsburg and engage visitors in its rich history.

Responsibilities

• Perform, create, and portray historical figures of 18th c. Williamsburg in original plays or informal interpretations.
• Create and perform in 18th c. play adaptations and interpret theatrical history.
• Connect themes to the Interpretive Plan, engaging guests to the collective past and why Williamsburg is significant in the development of a new nation.
• Utilize a variety of performance techniques and styles in a dynamic, passionate, and effective way, making history relevant to modern audiences.
• Apply creative and intellectual skills in developing and performing various roles for varied programming.
• Research and analyze primary and secondary sources to gain extensive, in-depth knowledge of 18th century Williamsburg and how it connects to the Foundation's Interpretive Pillars of Democracy, Freedom, Ingenuity, Community, and Revolution.
• Interpret 18th c. subjects and ideas through theatrical entertainments, scripted pieces, and/or guest engagement with spontaneous conversations as a person of the past.
• Prepare, rehearse, and perform assigned acting roles reliably, consistently, and skillfully, with historical and artistic accuracy and integrity.
• Actively participate as a positive member of an ensemble to create dynamic, inspiring, and educational experiences for guests and a healthy and positive work-environment for staff.
• (May include script writing, editing, directing, music, vocal, etc.)
• Perform with positivity, flexibility, and resiliency in a changing work environment.
• Work collaboratively across all Colonial Williamsburg’s departments for enriched programming.

Qualifications

• Knowledge and skills required to fulfill the defined job responsibilities usually acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to completion of a four-year degree from an accredited college or university, and two years of professional experience in theatre or related fields.
• Theatrical Training and experience to include but not limited to: Script memorization, manage multiple tasks, take direction, improvisation skills, perform in front of large audiences.
• Ability to research and synthesize historical information.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Fundamental knowledge and understanding of American History usually gained through high school completion with at least 2 years professional growth in this medium.
• Preferred Knowledge and understanding of Colonial and Revolutionary America including VA history.
• Experience in research Specialty performance and theatrical skills such as: musical instruments, singing, stage combat, playwriting, directing, choreography, and stage management.
• Interpretation, storytelling, teaching, and/or museum experience.

Compensation

This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor. Compensation range: $16.78 to $25.14.