Volunteer Steward

About the role

Being a Theatre Steward involves far more than showing patrons to their seats. It requires a unique blend of interpersonal skills, empathy, and a practical know-how to ensure every visitor feels welcome from the moment they step into the venue. A successful steward pays close attention to detail and possesses a natural ability to read social cues, allowing them to anticipate audience needs and respond proactively. Stewards play a fundamental role in creating a positive and memorable theatre experience.

To ensure smooth performances and audience safety, stewards must be well-versed in the theatre layout, emergency procedures, and accessibility options. This knowledge allows them to provide accurate information and support when needed, giving them confidence in handling everything from routine enquiries to emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Scanning tickets at the main doors
• Assisting & directing customers in an efficient and friendly manner
• Selling programmes & merchandise when required
• Must be aware of, and follow, the proper procedures for assisting patrons with disabilities
• When assigned to work in the auditorium during a performance, remain in the auditorium and act as a contact point for any customer requiring assistance and immediately report any problems to the Duty Manager using your radio
• Pick up rubbish at the end of the show to check for potential safety issues and lost and found items
• Be aware of and enforce appropriate house rules
• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the theatre and a good understanding of evacuation procedures from all points within the theatre
• Attend pre-event Steward meetings and other training as required by management
• Understand and implement, if necessary, the Jersey Opera House evacuation procedure and act as an assistant to the Duty Manager in the event of an evacuation during a performance
• Understand and uphold Jersey Opera House policies regarding customer service standards and working practices
• Be courteous and professional with colleagues and work to maintain a friendly and professional atmosphere
• Be aware of and adhere to Jersey Opera House Health & Safety policy
• Carry out other reasonable duties as requested by the Duty Manager

Requirements

• Ability to climb steps repeatedly
• Ability to descend/ascend ramps and inclines/declines
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Work in a fast-paced, busy environment with environmental conditions such as noise, heights, dark/dim/absence of lighting
• Comfortable using technology; radios and scanners
• Deal with a wide variety of personalities and situations
• Work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays
• A commitment to excellent customer care, and be compliant with theatre policies and procedures, including safeguarding

Skills

• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Reliability and professionalism
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and bank holidays
• Previous experience in a customer-facing role is desirable but not essential
• First Aid, Fire Marshall, or Health & Safety training is an advantage (training will be provided)
• Clean and tidy presentation
• Ability to interact effectively with customers
• Flexible working, able to work evenings, days and/or weekends

Schedule

You will need to commit to an agreed number of shifts each month. Shifts will begin 1 hour 15 minutes before the show and will end roughly 15/20 minutes after the performance finishes. Patterns of shifts are negotiable and are likely to be variable depending on the length of the show.