Theatre Performer
Position Summary and Purpose
The Theatre Performer will foster the interactive nature of ChatterBox Theatre Society plays by bringing children from the audience into the middle of the story being acted out. Using humour and a safe environment, that includes parents / guardians in the audience, the Theatre Performer will interact with the children in the audience and help them increase their confidence and creativity by working through complex social issues children may experience. Social issues may include topics like bullying, gender inequality, peer pressure, trust, and more. The Theatre Performer will draw out different perspectives from the children to help teach them and the audience on the social issue(s) being addressed.
Essential Job Functions
Attend and participate in rehearsals and additional training to build skills in acting, improvisation, theatrics production, interaction with children, ethics and teamwork.
Read and memorize scripts, take cues, and partner with other Theatre Performers to create memorable shows for the audience that they will enjoy.
Interpret the work of the Script Writer under the instruction and support of the Artistic Director.
Practice and convey characters with special personality traits and emotions to connect with the audience and foster learnings within the story.
Incorporate humour into roles through speech, gesture, and body movements to entertain or inform the audience about the social issue(s) being portrayed in the play.
Improvise the reactions of a character within a particular social situation.
Encourage audience participation for an optimal theatrical experience.
Ensure costumes are properly maintained and that the Costume Designer is aware of any deficiencies that need to be addressed.
Ensure all props and equipment are handled with care before, during and after performances.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Creative or artistic skills in stage management, professional acting and improvisation, choreography, etc.
Experience acting as characters in theatre productions to share stories and connect with audience members on an emotional level considered an asset.
Ability to collaborate with other team members to achieve desired outcomes that support the mission of the organization.
Strong problem-solving skills to improvise when technical challenges arise during shows.
Strong work ethic and passionate commitment to advancing the mission of the organization.
Willingness to learn new techniques related to theatre, performance, voice, and dance.
Strong communication skills to cultivate community and audience connections.
Friendly, professional demeanor and considered approachable by others they interact with.
Minimum Qualifications
Demonstrated work, school, or volunteer experience in interacting with audiences through public expression, public speaking, or other creative skills.
Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts considered an asset.
Passionate interest in theatre and education of the fine arts in the Calgary community.
Legally entitled to volunteer in Canada, with the ability to meet volunteer screening requirements (e.g. criminal check, including a vulnerable sector verification).
Working Conditions
In-person opportunity that provides in-depth training over an 8-week period, followed by three months of performances on the weekends.
Working directly with members of the arts community, with the opportunity to meet new people and give back to the charitable sector.
As performance dates approach, your time commitment and in-person availability may increase.
Letters of reference and references are provided upon successful completion of the volunteer role or project, as outlined in the description above. Hours volunteered may also be used for maintaining your professional designation and/or program studies, which can be verified by the respective professional association or educational institution. Use your expertise to make a positive impact in the community!
ChatterBox Theatre Society is strongly committed to diversity, equity, and inclusivity within the community. We welcome and encourage applications from all religious backgrounds, BIPoC, persons with disabilities, and others who can contribute to the diversification of our community. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and a cover letter. We thank you for your interest in this opportunity; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.