With our spring performances less than a month away, we are seeking Front of House Volunteers to help our events go as smoothly as possible.

We need a team of 10 volunteers at each performance who can support audiences at Chicago Shakespeare Theater before, during, and after the show. This team helps welcome audiences, answer questions, and ensures everyone who attends our events has a great time. In exchange, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket for the performance during your volunteer shift and an A.B.L.E. t-shirt.

Learn more and Apply

When can I volunteer?

There are 3 shifts to choose from. You can sign up for just one or spend the whole weekend with us!

Friday, April 25th from 6:00 to 9:00pm
Saturday, April 26th from 1:00 to 4:00pm
Sunday, April 27th from 1:00 to 4:00pm

What do Front of House Volunteers Do?

The primary role of the FOH Volunteers is to ensure our audiences feel welcome, included and supported. It will be helpful for all volunteers to familiarize yourself with A.B.L.E.’s mission and key programs in case audience members ask you questions about the organization.

All volunteers assist with assembling lobby displays and ensuring the space is ready for audiences before breaking off into their specific roles. After the show, volunteers will assist with striking and packing up lobby displays, and ensuring the space is clean.

Additionally, each volunteer will assigned to one of the following stations:

Greeters (3): These volunteers will be stationed at the theatre entrance, in the main lobby, and outside the Studio theatre to greet guests and help people find their way around the building. This role can be performed seated

Ushers (3): These volunteers will be positioned in the theatre to support guests in finding the best seats for them as our seating is general admission. This includes pointing people to access seating or our designated movement zone. After the show, ushers will thank patrons for coming. This role requires some movement.

Merchandise Table/Donation Station (2): For a suggested donation, attendees can get ABLE merch like t-shirts, bags and posters. Volunteers will also accept donations at this table. These volunteers will talk with guests and assist with record-keeping, math, and working with our point-of-sale device. This role can be done seated.

Access Table (1): In the theatre lobby, we will have a table offering various sensory support tools for patrons to use during the performance and return afterwards. These volunteers will organize the table, talk with patrons about different sensory needs, and offer support tools. After the show, they will help with sanitizing returned items. This role can be done seated.

What should Front of House Volunteers wear?

We will provide an A.B.L.E. t-shirt. You may want a cardigan or a long sleeve shirt to layer depending on the unpredictable Chicago weather. Bottoms are up to you, but keep in mind we may need you to move around a bit or help hang up some display items, so you may not want to wear your fanciest trousers. Some roles will require moving and lifting, so comfortable shoes with closed toes and a solid back are also recommended.

Is there compensation for this role?

This is a volunteer position. As a thank you, volunteers will get a complimentary ticket for the performance during their shift, and a limited edition Frankenstein t-shirt. A.B.L.E. can also offer reimbursement for travel and/or parking.