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HOYT SHERMAN PLACE VOLUNTEERS
THERE'S A PLACE FOR YOU!
Mission: By preserving and enhancing this 1877 landmark, the Hoyt Sherman Place Foundation provides and broadens opportunities for people of all ages to view, learn, and participate in the performing and visual arts.
The Hoyt Sherman Place Volunteer Program invites you to take your place along side the staff and many dedicated volunteers who enjoy meeting new people, supporting the cultural scene in greater Des Moines and celebrating the history of this one-of-a-kind facility.
As a volunteer, we consider you one of the family and an important part in making Hoyt Sherman Place our community's most celebrated cultural center. You'll also play a key role in the many artistic and educational activities that enrich our community.
Volunteers are needed throughout the organization. Opportunities include but are not limited to:
Art Gallery & Mansion
Helping to make sure that the artifacts are preserved to the highest quality by volunteering to assist with cataloging, inventory, and cleaning.
Helping the community recognize the historical significance of the building and its artifacts by becoming a docent.
Helping to make the grounds an attractive part of the facility by participating in seasonal clean-ups and landscaping activities.
Helping to ensure that Hoyt Sherman Place guests and patrons have a quality experience by serving as an event host or hostess.
Historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater
House Managers
House Managers are responsible for Front of House before, during, and after a performance. Everything in front of the stage is considered Front of House. This includes the auditorium and lobby area. The House Manager is required to arrive one hour prior to curtain and stay until all patrons leave after the venue. This person will coordinate and supervise the ushers and ticket takers. The House Manager duties include checking with the Stage Manager or Manager On Duty to find out when to begin seating, checking the theatre, lobby and mezzanine for tidiness, and being available for any seating problems. House Manager will provide Usher IDs, a complementary drink ticket and a Flashlight to all
The House Manger will designate how many ushers at each door depending on the seats sold. Sold out shows require 3 ushers to a door; Less Crowded performances require 1 or 2.
After a show and/or concert starts the house manager will sort, count and record the ticket stubs for the show. After the show, the House Manager is required to make sure all patrons have left the theatre. House managers will be responsible for directing emergency assistance personnel and procedures.
Time Requirement: 1 hour prior to curtain time until the end of the performance and all patrons have left the theatre.
Ticket Takers/Ushers
Ticket Takers greet the patrons as they enter the theatre. They will tear tickets appropriately returning the bottom 2/3 to the patron and depositing the top 1/3 into the baskets placed at all entrances. When necessary, ushers will guide patrons to the seats. In some instances and with adequate volunteer support available, ushers will also be placed in the aisles in the theater for further assistance and guidance in finding seats.
If there are any late arrivals, it will be the responsibility of the Ushers to seat them at an appropriate time, as quietly as possible.
Offer assistance to anyone asking for help.
Refer any seating disputes to the Volunteer Coordinator or Event Planner.
Close the entryway curtains when the lights go off in the theater.
An usher will remain outside the doors as the performance begins.
Seat late comers at the appropriate time (the House Manager will advise.)
Monitor patrons for food and beverage brought into the theater, and politely explain the NO Food or Beverage in the Theater Policy. Most, if not all, live concerts have a NO CAMERA OR RECODING DEVICE, policy as well. Ushers will monitor patrons for these items and politely explain the policy.
The Ticket Takers have the opportunity to see the show after all patrons have been seated.
Time Requirement: 1 hour prior to curtain time until the end of the show.
Many Ticket Takers/Ushers volunteer with friends or family members. Ushers will assist to ensure patrons are comfortable.
Time Requirement: 1 hour prior to curtain time until the end of the how.
Coat Check
This is a paid volunteer position and is not available at every event.
The Manager On Duty/Volunteer Coordinator will announce if the position is open and will fill it "first come first serve." Please note that it is mandatory to remain stationed with the coats until the last coat has been picked up. You will not be able to watch the performance while working this position.
Please arrive 1 and ½ hours before the performance begins.
Accept patron's belongings, store belongings in coat check area, and give the patron a numbered claim ticket for each item.
At intermission and conclusion of the performance, retrieve belongings for patron with appropriate claim ticket.
Administrative Operations
Helping spread the word by distributing posters for upcoming programs, and representing HSP at trade shows
and special events.
Helping with the tasks necessary for the daily operation of HSP by working along side us in our administrative office.
Helping us become a better organization by providing important feedback and input on events and operations to HSPF staff.
Please remember…Volunteer opportunities are numerous and can be developed around your particular area of interest or professional expertise. Be sure to let us know!
Benefits
Everyone volunteering at Hoyt Sherman Place can…
Meet many of new people with similar interests
Experience a variety of cultural activities
Have fun!
For more information, or to become a HSPF Volunteer please complete and return the volunteer application inserted in this brochure. Or, contact the Hoyt Sherman Place Events /Volunteer Coordinator at (515)244-0507 ext. 204.
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